The Nigerian government is taking steps to significantly increase domestic wheat production, announcing plans to cultivate over 70,000 hectares of wheat this dry season, starting in November 2023. This expanded wheat farming aims to boost Nigeria’s food reserves with an estimated 875,000 metric tons of wheat grain.
According to the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Abubakar Kyari, the wheat cultivation drive is part of the government’s National Agricultural Growth Scheme and Agro Pocket projects funded by the African Development Bank. The projects will provide Nigerian wheat farmers with high-quality seeds, fertilizers, training, and extension support.
Wheat is a staple food in Nigeria, with over 4 million metric tons consumed annually. However, due to limited domestic production, Nigeria imports over $2 billion worth of wheat each year. Expanding wheat farming will reduce imports and strengthen Nigeria’s food security.
The increased focus on wheat comes at an opportune time for Nigeria. Global wheat prices surged over 60% last year due to the war in Ukraine, one of the world’s largest wheat exporters. With suitable agro-ecological conditions in many northern states, Nigeria has the potential to grow far more wheat and buffer global supply issues.
Wheat farming can also create jobs and income for Nigeria’s farmers. With access to mechanization, improved seeds, and training, wheat yields and quality can increase substantially. The government aims to engage smallholder farmers in its wheat initiative, providing a pathway out of poverty.
Public-private partnerships will be key, with flour millers and other agribusinesses helping to ensure farmers get good prices and have market access. There are also opportunities to develop value-added processing products like wheat-based foods and feeds.
With strong government support, smart policies, and private-sector collaboration, Nigeria is poised to expand its wheat sector for greater self-sufficiency, food security, and farmer prosperity.