Insecurity Threatens Nigeria's Food Security, Alaafin Warns

Alaafin Akeem Owoade of Oyo State warned that insecurity poses the greatest threat to agricultural productivity and food security in Nigeria. Speaking at an interfaith prayer service at the ancient Oyo Palace, he urged the federal government to adopt a coordinated approach to tackle insecurity, which continues to hinder farmers' access to farmland due to threats from armed criminals.

Despite various agricultural interventions, the reality remains that rural communities are insecure, affecting food production and contributing to rising food prices. The Alaafin noted that farmers are often forced to negotiate access to their fields with armed bandits, undermining national food security efforts.

He highlighted that insecurity disrupts local economies, leads to food shortages, and escalates inflation. The prayer session aimed to foster peace and unity among citizens, with dignitaries including Alhaji Bilaal Akinola and Sheikh Daud Ogun participating.

The Alaafin stressed the importance of collective prayer in bridging ethnic and religious divides to promote a shared sense of purpose.