Giving more attention to agriculture
As elsewhere in Africa, land is so important. The world economic downturn has focused ever more attention on Nigeria’s need to diversify its economy. With 80 to 90 million people, in other words up to 70% of the population, dependent on agriculture – which also supplies 42% of GDP – it is an obvious area for priority. The government is giving more attention to agriculture, which is good. Putting emphasis on commercial agriculture makes great sense. The tropical agriculture research done in Ibadan has been helpful. Good infrastructure and services and support is needed for the farmers. It was interesting to call on Oxfam to hear more about their livelihoods, food and agricultural development strategy in many of Nigeria’s States, where they are trying to ensure that the interests of small scale farmers are properly recognised. Should it not also be a priority to 'bring on' small scale farmers, helping them improve productivity and inputs, and helping them convert into small commercial farmers themselves? Access to land also needs to be decided fairly and not just handed out at political whim. Getting the new land legislation right will be critical
Posted at 16:52 02 September 2009 by Bob Dewar | Comments[0]
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