Nigerian Farmers Reluctant to Return to Agriculture, Says Atako

Bountiful Atako, Managing Director of Alana Green Limited, has issued a warning that Nigerian farmers are increasingly stepping back from their agricultural responsibilities due to soaring input costs and policy inconsistencies. This trend has raised concerns about food production and supply across the nation.

In an interview with ARISE News on Tuesday, Atako discussed the significant effects of global disruptions and domestic policy choices, which are becoming evident in the agricultural sector.

"The situation is not just a future concern; it is already unfolding," he stated.

He outlined the financial difficulties farmers are encountering, particularly in repaying loans alongside escalating production expenses.

"We're witnessing widespread defaults on loan repayments by farmers. Our company, Alana Green, has been adversely impacted by this issue," he noted.

According to Atako, recent government policies have exacerbated the challenges for farmers who had made significant investments in their crops.

"Farmers had accumulated funds to purchase inputs... but just before they could proceed to the market, the government’s importation regulations hit hard," he explained.

Consequently, numerous farmers are rethinking their role in the sector. "From reports I have received from my team on the ground... farmers are unwilling to return to the fields," he revealed.

Atako further indicated that even those who remain active in agriculture are reducing their operations due to uncertainty. "Smallholder farmers are adopting a more cautious approach... as they are unsure about the policy landscape," he stated.

He emphasized that the lack of consistency in agricultural policy is a major hurdle undermining productivity and diminishing confidence in the sector.

"The coherence in agricultural policy has been inconsistent. As farmers, we do not perceive the needed support," he expressed.

Atako also cautioned that the recent improvements in food pricing may not last due to existing pressures.

"We have managed to contain inflation to some extent, but it is likely to surge again due to these ongoing concerns," he remarked.

The observations made by Atako underscore the escalating instability within Nigeria's agricultural sector, with declining participation among farmers posing a serious threat to food security if the current policy and economic challenges continue unaddressed.