Farmers warn against low food production in 2026

 

There are growing concerns that Nigeria may experience low food production in 2026 due to carryover challenges from previous farming seasons, with obvious delays in the preparation for the current year, coupled with worsening insecurity across key agricultural regions.

Farmers and other agricultural stakeholders who spoke with us under anonymity pointed out that many programs towards food security were unable to be carried out in 2025, as only 30% of the 2024 capital budget was released, with none yet from the year 2025 or 26.

They said there was uncertainty about government plans with funding for input provision for the running season, coupled with insecurity that is preventing farmers from going into their farms.

Farmers gave the example of Sokoto State, where farmers have reportedly been forced out of their homes and farmlands due to violent attacks that are raising fears for many to abandon their farms.

They also cited the recent attack on some key communities in the North and another in Yagba North, Kogi state, where a farm settlement called Sabogiri has been turned to bandits' hide out. 

Stakeholders criticised the Federal Government’s declaration on food emergency, saying it has no sincerity, but only symbolic, with  lack of concrete actions and practical commitments to address Nigeria’s food crisis.

They queried why the FG was still comfortable with only 30% capital budget releases from year 2024 for a sector it claimed to have had concern towards ensuring food security.

“If the government is truly serious about addressing food insecurity, budgetary provisions should have reflected it," said a farmer who added that “ You cannot declare a food emergency and still rely on an outdated budget framework.”

Farmers also lamented the continued shortage of essential inputs such as improved seeds, fertilisers, agrochemicals, and access to affordable credit. They noted that these constraints have reduced productivity and discouraged many smallholder farmers from expanding cultivation.

While some farmers initially welcomed the food emergency declaration, believing it would lead to swift intervention and increased support, they, however, now expressed disappointment over only little change, with farmers being discouraged as a result of lower prices that didn't correspond to the high cost of agricultural inputs.

The farmers warned that without urgent policy adjustments, including timely budget reviews, improved security in farming communities, and direct support for producers, Nigeria’s food crisis would be worsen in 2026.

They called on the Federal Government to back its declarations with decisive action, stressing that food security must be treated as a national priority rather than a political statement.