By Imrana Sulaiman Maikanti
Nigeria’s food security challenges are reaching critical levels this year, spurring calls for immediate action to boost agricultural production. In an exclusive interview with Jewel Times Newspaper, Hon. Muhammad Magaji Gettado, a seasoned agricultural expert and the National Publicity Secretary of All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), outlined several urgent measures that could help stabilize the nation’s food supply. Speaking from his office, Hon. Gettado stressed the need for both farmers and the government to take proactive steps to address the food shortage and safeguard the future.
Hon. Gettado who is the former Commissioner of Agriculture and animal husbandry in Gombe State began by emphasizing the importance of intensified farming cycles, suggesting that farmers cultivate two or even three crops per season. “Multi-season farming could significantly improve our output, especially in regions with favorable dry-season conditions in Gombe State like Dadin-Kowa, Balanga, and Yamaltu-Deba,” he stated. Expanding dry-season farming in these areas, which have access to river systems and irrigation potential, would play a critical role in buffering against the food shortages Nigeria faces due to unpredictable weather patterns.
A crucial barrier to food production, according to Hon. Gettado, is the chronic lack of access to essential inputs like fertilizer. He urged the government to ensure that fertilizers are distributed early and efficiently each season. “When fertilizers arrive late, farmers lose valuable time, affecting crop yield and financial returns,” he explained. Hon. Gettado proposed that the government establish a loan scheme where farmers could repay through farm produce, helping to build a government reserve for food security. “If the government actively buys and stores this produce, it could mitigate the risk of future shortages,” he added, underscoring the value of a strategic national food reserve.
Hon. Gettado further recommended the adoption of digital equipment, including soil monitoring sensors, weather forecasting tools, and GPS-based crop management systems, which could transform Nigeria’s agricultural sector. These technologies would enable farmers to monitor soil quality, track crop health, and maximize productivity with minimal waste. “Digital farming tools are not just a luxury; they are essential in this era of precision agriculture,” he remarked.
In addition to technology, Hon. Gettado emphasized the importance of quality seeds, which are critical for crop resilience and yield. He noted that distributing high-yield, drought-resistant seeds could ensure more stable production in the face of climate variability. Proper training and resources for farmers, including access to improved machinery and support services, are also essential to equip farmers with the skills to adapt to modern farming techniques.
As Nigeria grapples with this escalating food crisis, Hon. Gettado’s recommendations provide a roadmap for both immediate and long-term solutions. With proactive measures and strong government support, these actions could stabilize the food supply and secure a more resilient agricultural future for the nation.