Manny Ita –
The Federal Government of Nigeria has stated that the country requires at least 25 million tonnes of maize annually to meet domestic demand and strengthen national food security.
The Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Aliyu Abdullahi, disclosed this on Friday during the Quarterly Citizens and Stakeholders’ Engagement meeting held in Abuja.
Abdullahi said the government had intensified efforts to increase maize production across the country, noting that boosting local output remains a key strategy for reducing reliance on food imports and stabilizing food supply.
According to him, the demand for maize continues to rise due to its importance as a staple food and a major component in livestock and poultry feed, making increased production essential to meeting the needs of Nigeria’s growing population.
“Nigeria requires about 25 million tonnes of maize annually to meet national demand,” Abdullahi said during the engagement. “Expanding domestic production is critical to ensuring that nutritious food remains affordable and accessible to Nigerians.”
He explained that the government is implementing several agricultural initiatives aimed at improving productivity, including support programmes for smallholder farmers, improved access to agricultural financing, and the promotion of modern farming practices.
The minister said smallholder farmers remain central to the country’s agricultural strategy, adding that the government is working to strengthen their capacity through targeted interventions and partnerships with key stakeholders in the agricultural value chain.
Abdullahi noted that ensuring adequate maize production would also help address broader food security concerns while supporting the livestock and agro-processing industries that depend heavily on the crop.
He emphasized that sustained investment in agriculture, particularly in maize production, would play a significant role in reducing food shortages and stabilizing prices in the domestic market.
The federal government reiterated its commitment to working with farmers, private sector players and development partners to boost agricultural productivity and ensure that Nigeria meets its food security goals in the coming years.
