NIGERIA still imports about $3 billion to $5 billion worth of food annually and earns paltry foreign exchange from agriculture which used to be the mainstay of its economy.
The sector, even with the multiplier effects and value chain on food production, job creation and foreign exchange earnings, has been neglected by previous administrations.
In view of the crash in global oil prices and the present administration’s efforts to diversify the economy, agriculture has been put in the front burner.
The latest data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) shows that export earnings from agricultural goods are hefty. With the flagging off of yam exports by the Federal Government on June 29, agriculture export earnings will rise significantly.
The Minister of Agriculture, Chief Audu Ogbe, stated that the country targeted about $8 billion as annual foreign exchange from the export.
Nigeria is by far the world’s largest producer of yams, accounting for 61 per cent of all production. Nigeria produces 21 million tonnes of yams from the 3,837 hectares under cultivation.
Many states in Nigeria engage in yam production but Benue tops the list. Nigeria’s yam is in global demand because of its taste. Unfortunately, we cannot consume all that we produce, leading to wastage.
With the kicking off of the first phase of yam export in the country, which will see 72 tonnes of processed yams land in the United States, United Kingdom and China, the Federal Government should be commended.
This breakthrough will restore the lost glory of agriculture and motivate the farmers to produce more.
Ibrahim Pampegua,
Kaduna State.