Accra:The Federal Government has announced that the country’s agricultural sector is experiencing a resurgence, with a 4.39% growth recorded in the second quarter of 2026. This marks a strong upward trajectory for the sector, which had not seen such growth since 2021.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Sen. Aliyu Abdullahi, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, made this announcement during the World Food Day 2026 commemoration. The theme for this year, “Innovate Today. Nourish Tomorrow,” highlights the importance of innovation in ensuring food security for the future.
Abdullahi emphasized that government reforms and investments are making significant impacts, as evidenced by a 3.66% expansion in crop production, based on data from the National Bureau of Statistics. He outlined that these efforts are part of the Renewed Hope Agenda under President Bola Tinubu, aiming to transform agriculture into a productive and investment-driven sector.
The government has supported smallholder farmers to produce 2.5 million metric tonnes of staple foods over four farming seasons through the National Agricultural Growth Scheme and Agro-Pocket. Additionally, Nigeria’s domestic wheat production has increased to approximately 420,000 metric tonnes, a significant rise from the previous 120,000 metric tonnes.
Further initiatives include the Renewed Hope Agricultural Mechanisation Programme, which has introduced 2,000 tractors to improve farming efficiency, as well as soil mapping programs and the promotion of bio-fortified crops. The government is also focusing on reducing post-harvest losses and tackling high food prices through investments in infrastructure and storage solutions.
Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi, Permanent Secretary in the ministry, highlighted the collective responsibility of ensuring food security and the importance of innovation in the sector. He stressed the need for improved seeds, better farming practices, and efficient systems to support the growing population.
Ogunbiyi also acknowledged the contributions of international organizations like the FAO, IFAD, and the World Bank, as well as the efforts of women and youth farmers in sustaining the nation. He reiterated the government’s commitment to using agriculture as a key driver of economic growth and job creation, urging all Nigerians to embrace innovation to secure the nation’s food future.