Breaking the Hunger Cycle: A Call for Democratic Control of Agriculture in Nigeria -By Sarah James

The rising cost of food and persistent hunger in Nigeria have reached alarming levels, posing a severe challenge to millions of households. The headlines and stories reported recently highlight the devastating consequences of inflation, insecurity, and agricultural mismanagement on the lives of ordinary Nigerians. This situation demands urgent action and a fundamental shift toward democratic control of agriculture.

Families across the nation are struggling to put basic meals on the table. Prices of staple foods like rice, beans, and garri have soared beyond the reach of many. For instance, a paint bucket of beans, which once cost N1,500, now sells for over N6,000, leaving low-income families grappling with hunger and malnutrition. Many Nigerians have resorted to eating just to survive, with no thought of nutritional value—a worrying trend for a nation already battling health challenges linked to poor diets.

The root causes of this crisis are multifaceted. Insecurity in farming regions, economic shocks, climate change, and the removal of subsidies have collectively disrupted food production and accessibility. Over 26.5 million Nigerians are projected to face severe food insecurity in 2024, with states like Borno, Sokoto, and Zamfara being the hardest hit. The ripple effects are devastating, especially for children and pregnant women who suffer the most.

To address these challenges, there is a need for more democratic control of agriculture. This approach involves empowering small-scale farmers, local communities, and cooperative organizations to have a greater say in agricultural policies and practices. For decades, top-down governance has failed to account for the realities faced by rural farmers, resulting in poor productivity and systemic neglect.

The government has introduced some measures, such as releasing food from reserves and increasing farmland cultivation for staple crops. While these efforts are commendable, they are only short-term fixes. For sustainable solutions, Nigeria must focus on localizing food production, reducing dependence on imports, and prioritizing agricultural research and education.

Furthermore, democratic control also requires strong collaboration between the government, private sector, and civil society. Programs should target reducing food waste, improving supply chain efficiency, and providing financial support for smallholder farmers. Encouraging sustainable farming practices can also help mitigate the impacts of climate change on food systems.

The current crisis highlights the importance of food sovereignty—where citizens and local farmers play a central role in deciding agricultural priorities. Countries that have embraced this model have been able to build resilient food systems and protect vulnerable populations from hunger.

Moreover, it is imperative to address insecurity in agricultural regions. Without safe environments for farming, Nigeria will continue to face declining productivity and rising prices. Investing in rural security and infrastructure should be a top priority for policymakers.

As the situation worsens, humanitarian organizations like the World Food Programme and FAO have called for increased international cooperation and financial aid. However, external support should complement, not replace, robust local strategies aimed at tackling hunger at its roots.

In conclusion, addressing Nigeria’s food crisis requires more than short-term interventions. It demands a long-term, inclusive approach that prioritizes democratic control of agriculture, investment in rural development, and sustainable practices. The government must act swiftly to alleviate hunger and ensure that every Nigerian has access to affordable, nutritious food. Only then can we hope to break the cycle of hunger and poverty that has gripped the nation for too long.

Student Department of Mass  Communication, Borno State University Maiduguri.