News in brief:
– Nigeria’s maize production dropped by 14.64% in 2023, marking its lowest output since 2018, according to FAO data.
– In response, the federal government introduced new maize varieties to improve yields and support farmers’ income.
According to statistics released by the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Nigeria saw maize production drop by 14.64% in 2023.
The food agency had tracked Nigeria’s maize production for decades, showing a steady increment since 2020. However, 2023 showed a significant dip that coincided with higher prices and shortages. This decline is the lowest output the country has recorded since 2018.
Maize is a key food commodity in the West African nation because of its usefulness to humans and livestock.
As a staple crop, maize is used in various forms, including pap (ogi), tuwo, and roasted or boiled corn, making it an essential part of the local diet. Its affordability and adaptability to different climatic conditions have contributed to its widespread cultivation by smallholder and commercial farmers alike. The grain also plays a crucial role in food security, providing carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients for millions of people.
Beyond direct human consumption, maize is a critical ingredient in animal feed, making it indispensable to the livestock and poultry industries. Farmers rely on maize-based feed formulations to support poultry, cattle, and fish farming, which are key sectors in Nigeria’s agricultural economy. The growing demand for maize in feed production has increased its commercial value, encouraging more investments in large-scale maize farming.
However, challenges such as pest infestations, climate change, and post-harvest losses pose significant threats to maize production, requiring innovative solutions like improved seed varieties and better storage techniques.
The economic importance of maize extends beyond agriculture, as it supports agro-processing industries that produce flour, starch, ethanol, and other maize-derived products. The value chain of maize farming creates employment opportunities for farmers, traders, transporters, and food processors. With increasing urbanisation and a rising population, the demand for maize continues to grow, making it a strategic crop for Nigeria’s economic and food security plans. To sustain production, stakeholders must invest in modern farming techniques, improved irrigation systems, and policies that enhance productivity and reduce post-harvest losses.
The federal government released new varieties of maize to the public to improve production and help boost farmers’ income. State governments, in alignment with the administration, have also taken steps to support local production and empower farmers with input and access to land.
