Reasons Nigerians are hungry – Audu Ogbeh

Former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh, has identified several reasons why Nigerians are currently facing hunger and starvation. In an exclusive interview with Sunday Sun in Abuja, Ogbeh pointed to institutional policies such as high interest rates for farmers, the lack of subsidies for agricultural products (which are available in other countries), and challenges related to small-scale farming, including the limited availability of mechanized tools and fertilizers.

He also highlighted the lack of attention to agriculture at both the state and local government levels as contributing factors to the hunger crisis in the country. Ogbeh, who has held various significant positions in government, including Minister of Communications during Shehu Shagari’s administration, National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) under former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and Minister of Agriculture under Muhammadu Buhari, warned that the agricultural sector is in serious jeopardy.

Ogbeh explained that most Nigerian farmers are small-scale, with many unable to cultivate more than a hectare of land due to the high costs of renting tractors and purchasing fertilizers. He noted that the limited use of mechanization and improved seeds, coupled with the declining support from younger generations, has resulted in reduced agricultural output. Ogbeh also mentioned that only a small fraction of Nigeria’s arable land is under cultivation, with much of the country remaining uncultivated wilderness.

Population growth further exacerbates the issue, as more mouths to feed place additional strain on the already struggling agricultural sector. Ogbeh expressed concerns about the aging farmer population, the declining support from family members, and the rising cost of essential inputs like fertilizers and seeds, all of which contribute to decreasing agricultural productivity.

To address these challenges, Ogbeh emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach that includes mechanization, better access to credit, and a focus on improving agricultural infrastructure at the state and local government levels. He also called for a review of interest rates for agricultural loans, which he argued are prohibitively high compared to other countries.

Ogbeh also discussed the broader issue of food insecurity and suggested reviving the old Directorate of Food, Roads, and Rural Infrastructure (DFFRI) with a strong partnership between federal, state, and local governments to enhance agricultural productivity. He criticized the lack of attention paid to agriculture by state and local governments, particularly the insufficient support for small-scale farmers.

In addition, Ogbeh addressed the issue of open grazing in Benue State, where former Governor Ortom implemented a contentious ban. Ogbeh revealed that an agreement signed by Nigeria with ECOWAS countries in 1998 allows cattle from other West African countries to graze in Nigeria, contributing to conflicts between herders and farmers. He called for the revocation of this agreement to protect Nigerian farmers and improve food security.

Ogbeh also touched on the issues of kidnapping and banditry, attributing them to moral decay and the influence of negative behaviors. He expressed concern about the lack of industrial development in many states and stressed the importance of governors promoting industrial growth to create jobs and reduce poverty.

Reflecting on the current political landscape, Ogbeh criticized the state of political party administration in Nigeria, describing it as a “complete disaster” where parties become irrelevant after elections. He expressed disappointment with the focus on politics as the only viable industry in the country, with many seeking office for personal gain rather than public service.

Ogbeh also shared his thoughts on the performance of past administrations, including those of Obasanjo, Yar’Adua, Jonathan, Buhari, and Tinubu. He acknowledged the challenges each leader faced but emphasized that the underlying economic issues have remained unresolved. Ogbeh was particularly critical of the devaluation of the naira, which he argued has had long-lasting negative effects on the economy.

Regarding the removal of fuel subsidies, Ogbeh expressed skepticism about whether the decision was well-studied and questioned its impact on the lives of ordinary Nigerians. He noted that while the intent was to raise revenue for development, the results have been disappointing, with little visible improvement in the quality of life for most Nigerians.

Finally, Ogbeh reflected on Nigeria’s 25 years of unbroken democracy, criticizing the lack of effective party management and the failure of political parties to play a meaningful role in governance after elections. He urged for a more active and engaged political system that prioritizes the welfare of the people over individual ambitions.