Nigerians’ plight and urgent need for relief. By Michael Oke

Nigerians’ plight and urgent need for relief

The suffering of the average Nigerian citizen has become overwhelming. Many can no longer afford three square meals a day.

This dire situation is exacerbated by arbitrary increases in agricultural product prices, severe issues in most farming communities, governmental inaction, and a pervasive lack of hope for resolution.

These factors have significantly set back the economy. Despite the country’s large population and the President’s frequent trips abroad to attract investment, no tangible productive work or tasks are forthcoming.

Consequently, the economy remains battered, and struggles persist. Expressions of empathy for the hardships faced by the average Nigerian will not alleviate the situation or facilitate commerce.

While it is crucial to maintain optimism that the current government will guide us to better times, it is equally important to garner global interest and support in overcoming the country’s challenges.

The numerous challenges related to developing and motivating development partners to initiate projects require serious attention. Offering soft loans to support the maintenance and development of the agricultural sector’s value chain, in collaboration with the people and the government, is the best approach.

It is also essential to ensure that the motivations behind such interventions are acknowledged and supported. By guaranteeing the protection of property and business interests, we can effectively address the current issues facing the nation as a whole.

The high cost of food is a significant concern. To sell their produce, farmers must transport it from the farm gates, which prolongs delivery times and complicates logistics.

The inadequate road networks connecting farm gates to markets have led to uneven development in the agricultural sector. A close working relationship between farmers and transporters is necessary to ensure timely delivery and prevent agricultural products from deteriorating.

A major point of contention is the Fulani herdsmen moving their cattle in search of food and water, causing stagnant growth in farming communities and significant losses.

There is always an early warning system regarding the effects and differences in their behaviors. This issue is rooted in the lack of new production technology and the herdsmen’s belief that their current systems are their birthright.

They are unaware that new technologies are being developed to make cattle better feeders, leading to higher yields. This is not to say that I do not support grazing, but rather that various activities need to be undertaken to develop new technologies.

These will enable the expansion of land areas and provide different extension services to assist in the growth of the agricultural sector.

Besides these, boosting the activity and support in the agricultural sector can revive the economy of a country and uplift the very lives of its farmers.

Through renewed government support, proper tools, mechanisms, and adequate infrastructure, the agricultural sector of Nigeria can drive the economy to greater heights and help crash the soaring prices of foods in our markets.

Michael Oke an Agriculturist and Extension Agent writes from Gwagwalada Abuja FCT