COANSA Reports Low Agriculture Budget Spending in Nigeria

The Community of Agrifood Systems Non-State Actors (COANSA) has raised concerns regarding the low implementation of capital budgets in Nigeria's agriculture sector. Between 2023 and 2025, most states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) spent less than 50% of their allocated agriculture funds.

Dr Nkiruka Stella Okonkwo, representing the COANSA Chairperson, disclosed this information in Abuja while addressing journalists on World Food Day 2026. She described the public expenditure performance in agriculture as alarming, despite increased capital budget allocations from 2023 to 2026.

An analysis indicated that 15 states recorded less than 50% expenditure performance in 2026. Okonkwo warned that without necessary investments, Nigeria risks missing opportunities in 2026.

She advocated for innovative solutions such as agroecological practices and agricultural research to tackle ongoing challenges in food production and market access. Additionally, Mr Ayo Omowu from the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre called for the implementation of the Nigeria Agrifood System Strategy and Action Plan at all government levels.