Nigeria's Agriculture Faces Crisis Amid Rising Insecurity

The agricultural landscape in Nigeria is deteriorating amid rising violence and insecurity, particularly in the food belt regions. Farmers in areas like Bokkos, Barkin Ladi, and Guma are abandoning their lands due to threats from armed groups, leading to a significant decline in agricultural output.

In 2025, Nigeria recorded 171 terrorist incidents, a sharp increase from the previous year, with civilians being the primary victims. The ongoing crisis has forced communities in states like Kwara and Niger to scale back farming activities, as the risks associated with farming now outweigh the potential benefits.

The rising costs of fuel and fertilizers, compounded by global market pressures, further exacerbate the situation, making farming increasingly unviable. Major agricultural players, including Olam Nigeria, are struggling with supply chain disruptions and reduced raw material availability.

The agricultural sector, which contributes approximately 25% to Nigeria's GDP and employs about 35% of the labor force, is facing a ripple effect from these challenges, leading to higher food prices and increased inflation.