In a concerted effort to address food insecurity, the governments of the South-West states in Nigeria are developing a harmonized regional agricultural calendar aimed at optimizing production cycles throughout the region. This initiative is designed to streamline planting seasons based on each state’s competitive advantages while allowing for periodic reviews to meet regional needs.
The progress report, highlighted by *The PUNCH*, reveals that the initiative will also focus on comprehensive development of irrigation infrastructure, including the revitalization of dams to support year-round farming across most states in the zone.
This development follows the South-West Governors’ Forum meeting held in Lagos in June, where leaders discussed pressing issues, particularly the rise in food inflation and its implications for the states. The report, under the auspices of the DAWN Commission, outlines the ongoing efforts of the state governments to enhance agricultural production and infrastructure.
Among the key resolutions made by the governors is the establishment of a region-wide Agricultural Data Management and Information System, aimed at fostering inter-state collaboration on agricultural initiatives and creating a fully integrated agricultural ecosystem in the South-West.
Despite the progress, the report identified challenges in cross-ministerial collaboration and noted that initiatives from the six state governments have been limited in scope, failing to reach a significant number of farmers.
Additional measures discussed but not yet implemented include introducing mini tractors for smallholder farmers, increasing the farmer population in the region, lowering the average age of farmers, and creating more appealing entry points for youths into agriculture.
However, the report did acknowledge successes achieved by the six state governments, such as the establishment of farmers’ markets and food discount programs to alleviate consumption challenges. Enhanced security measures for farming communities, the adoption of cluster farming models, increased mechanization, and improved input distribution and support for farmers were also noted.
Furthermore, improvements in agricultural data management and extension services, along with initiatives to enhance agricultural infrastructure—including land clearing and road construction—are contributing to better agricultural financing and investment in the region.
