Nigeria Still Far from Achieving Food Security, Says University of Uyo Vice Chancellor
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Prof. Nyaudo Ndaeyo, has expressed concerns over Nigeria’s continued struggle with food security, despite an abundance of food in the country. Delivering the 111th inaugural lecture at the university on Saturday, titled “Farming System in Nigeria: Wallowing in Food Security Amid Abundance?”, Ndaeyo shared his insights on the issue.
Prof. Ndaeyo, a renowned academic in the Department of Crop Science and a specialist in farming systems agronomy, highlighted his extensive contributions to farming practices in Nigeria, including work on bush clearing, tillage methods, soil fertility, and crop production. He noted the importance of several staple crops such as maize, cassava, yam, and okra in the fight against food insecurity.
However, despite these efforts, Ndaeyo acknowledged that Nigeria remains far from achieving true food security. “We have food, but there is no food security,” he said. This statement underscores the challenge of ensuring not just the availability of food, but also its consistent access and distribution to all Nigerians.
While the situation remains dire, the Vice Chancellor remained optimistic, noting that the current administration is now focusing more closely on tackling the food security issue. He also emphasized the need for the country to heed divine advice, referencing the biblical proverb Proverbs 12:11, which encourages the responsible use of resources.
To achieve true food security, Prof. Ndaeyo recommended that Nigeria adopt appropriate land development techniques to improve agricultural output. “The normal method will not achieve much,” he stated, urging a shift in approach to realize sustainable agricultural growth.
