Nigeria’s agricultural sector continues to face serious setbacks as insecurity keeps many farmers away from their farmlands. In response, the All-Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) has called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to take decisive action by establishing a national committee focused on preventing farmer–herder conflicts.
Speaking at Vanguard’s Economic Discourse in Lagos, AFAN President Mohammed Magaji highlighted how rising insecurity—especially in the North-West and North-East—has significantly reduced farming activities and food production across the country.
Insecurity Threatens Food Production
According to Magaji, many farmers are simply unable to access their land due to safety concerns. In some areas, particularly Kaduna State, farmers who once produced large quantities of crops, such as maize, have been forced to abandon their farms entirely.
He emphasized that the issue goes beyond farmer–herder clashes. Widespread banditry and insurgency, including attacks linked to Boko Haram, have made farming nearly impossible in several regions.
In states like Borno State, where farmers previously cultivated crops across multiple seasons, up to 80% of local government areas are now considered unsafe for farming.
Why a Prevention Committee Matters
AFAN is proposing a shift in strategy—from reacting to conflicts after they happen to preventing them before they escalate. The suggested national committee would include security experts, intellectuals, and key stakeholders tasked with developing proactive solutions.
Magaji pointed to Gombe State as a success story, where adopting a conflict prevention approach has significantly reduced clashes between farmers and herders.
The Way Forward
The call is clear: without improved security, Nigeria’s agricultural productivity will continue to decline. AFAN believes that with stronger government intervention—particularly in tackling banditry and insurgency—farmers can safely return to their land and boost food production nationwide.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes are now on the Federal Government to act swiftly and implement long-term solutions that will restore confidence in Nigeria’s farming communities.