By Mojeed Adeyemi
As part of efforts to promote sustainable economic growth, the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Lagos Coordination Office, participated in the Vanguard Economic Discourse focused on food security and the revitalisation of Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
The event, themed “Food Security and Socioeconomic Stability: Options for Nigeria’s Agriculture Sector Rebound,” was held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos State, and aimed to deliberate on and address rising security concerns affecting farmers and agricultural productivity in Nigeri, brought together government officials, development partners, financial institutions, and private sector players to discuss solutions for improving agricultural productivity and ensuring food availability.
During the event, the RMRDC Lagos State Coordinator, Mrs. Uchechukwu Ojiakor, briefed participants and stakeholders about the forthcoming African Raw Materials Summit scheduled to hold from 22nd to 24th June, 2026 at Abuja. Urging them to be part of the great landmark event as it is packed with numerous benefits. She said this is the second edition of the summit. She also highlighted the Council’s 30% value addition initiative aimed at promoting local processing of raw materials before export, which is expected to boost industrial growth, reduce import dependence, and enhance value creation within the economy.
In the welcome address, the representative of the Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Professor Eustace Ayemere Iyayi, stated that food security requires improved productivity, better infrastructure, stronger data systems and support for farmers. He noted that rising food prices are affecting poverty levels and national stability.
You Might AlsoLike
In his opening remarks, Mr. Maruf Ajenifuja, representing the Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, stated that agriculture remains key to Nigeria’s economy but is facing challenges such as poor planning, limited access to finance, and inadequate infrastructure.
Delivering the keynote address, Hussein Gadain of the Food and Agriculture Organization explained that Nigeria’s food security problem is mainly due to inefficiencies in the agricultural system. He emphasized the need to connect farmers to storage, processing, and markets, while reducing post-harvest losses and improving rural infrastructure.
Goodwill messages from stakeholders, including representatives of the International Fund for Agricultural Development and Sterling Bank, highlighted the need for investment, collaboration, and innovation in the sector.
During the panel session, participants expressed concern that government policies are not yet producing visible results for farmers. They stressed the need for better implementation, coordination, and accountability.
At the end of the event, there was a consensus that Nigeria has the resources to achieve food security, but its success it dependent on effective execution and strong collaboration among stakeholders.
Members of the RMRDC team at the event included the Lagos State Coordinator, Mrs. Uchechukwu Ojiakor; Senior Investment Officer, Mrs. Yemisi Bamgboye and Investment Officer II, Mr. Suleiman Mohammed.
