By Jide Akinseye
Flip Farm Resorts has made significant strides in promoting agricultural practices and sustainable living. As we reflect on the importance of owning farm land for garden and agricultural purposes, we are reminded of the benefits of backyard farming, also known as garden farming. This approach to farming not only provides an opportunity for individuals to grow their own food but also contributes to food security, employment, and community well-being.
The recent #EndBadGovernance protests have highlighted the pressing issues of hunger and rising food costs in Nigeria. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Nigeria’s inflation rate has accelerated further to 34.19 percent in June 2024, the highest since March 1996. Food inflation, which accounts for the bulk of Nigeria’s inflation basket, surged to a record high of 40.87 percent in June. This trend is alarming and necessitates immediate attention to address the challenges facing the agricultural sector.
Growing up in the late ’80s and early ’90s, I witnessed the essence of OPERATION FEED THE NATION, an initiative by President Olusegun Obasanjo that encouraged Nigerians to own farmland and farm in their respective homes. Today, I believe that garden farming can be a major source of food for families in Nigeria, providing employment opportunities and generating income. Garden farming promotes social relationships, improves home nutrition, and contributes to food security, employment, wealth, and community well-being. It also provides an opportunity for community gardens and common areas to promote social cohesion.
However, Nigerian farmers face numerous challenges, including:
a) Limited access to credit facilities and funding: Many farmers lack access to capital to invest in their farms, leading to low productivity and income.
b) Inadequate agricultural infrastructure: The lack of storage facilities, roads, and irrigation systems hinders farmers’ ability to produce and market their products effectively.
c) Climate change and environmental degradation: Climate change and environmental degradation pose significant threats to agricultural productivity and sustainability.
d) Insecurity and herdsmen attacks: Insecurity and herdsmen attacks have led to the displacement of farmers, resulting in reduced food production and increased poverty.
e) Limited access to markets and storage facilities: Many farmers lack access to markets and storage facilities, leading to post-harvest losses and reduced income.
To eradicate hunger in Nigeria, we must address these challenges and promote sustainable agricultural practices. Investing in farmland and supporting local farmers can help to:
i) Increase food production and availability: By providing farmers with the necessary resources and support, we can increase food production and availability, reducing the reliance on imported foods.
ii) Reduce reliance on imported foods: By promoting local food production, we can reduce the reliance on imported foods, conserving foreign exchange and stimulating economic growth.
iii) Create employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth: Agriculture has the potential to create employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth, reducing poverty and inequality.
iv) Improve nutrition and health outcomes: By promoting local food production, we can improve nutrition and health outcomes, reducing the incidence of hunger and malnutrition.
v) Enhance food security and sustainability: By promoting sustainable agricultural practices, we can enhance food security and sustainability, ensuring that future generations have access to nutritious food.
In conclusion, Flip Farm Resorts has demonstrated the importance of agricultural practices and sustainable living. By investing in farmland, supporting local farmers, and promoting garden farming, we can reap numerous benefits, including food security, employment opportunities, and a positive impact on the environment. Let us work together to eradicate hunger in Nigeria and build a more sustainable future.