Young Agriculturists in Nigeria Call for Increased Government Support for Local Food Producers

Strategic Insights -

Young farmers in Mararaba, Nasarawa State, have emphasized the need for increased government support to boost livestock farming and reduce the country's dependence on imported animal products. The agriculturists, owners of an integrated livestock and crop farm, have seen significant success with their catfish, broilers, and other farm products, but require government-backed loans and access to reliable markets to expand their operation. They also stressed the importance of food safety, urging the government to invest more in training and mentorship programs that can expose young people to modern farming techniques.

Key Takeaways:

  • The integrated livestock and crop farm in Mararaba, Nasarawa State, is a successful example of sustainable agriculture with products such as catfish, broilers, and local chickens.
  • The farm's co-manager, Mr Ogese Samuel, emphasized the need for government-backed loans and access to reliable markets to scale up their impact.
  • The farm maintains strict hygiene standards and collaborates with Nasarawa State inspection teams to ensure compliance with health regulations.
  • Miss Maranata Fadawa, a director in the farm, encouraged young Nigerians to embrace agriculture as a means of honest income and to meet the national demand for protein.
  • The experts urged the government to invest in training and mentorship programs that can expose young people to modern farming techniques.
  • Agriculture has inelastic demand, and support is needed to grow the capacity of local food producers to meet the increasing demand for protein.

Statistics:

  • The farm has a diverse range of farm products, including catfish, broilers, local chickens, turkey, rabbit, snail, earthworm, and pigs.
  • The farm is currently self-sufficient in terms of protein production, meeting the local demand with their products.
  • Mr Ogese Samuel noted that the farm requires funds to expand their current operation, which has significant potential for growth.
  • The demand for protein in Nigeria is increasing daily due to the rising population, making it essential for local food producers to increase their capacity.
  • The farm maintains 100% compliance with health regulations through their strict hygiene standards and collaboration with Nasarawa State inspection teams.

Sources:

  • News Agency of Nigeria (22 June 2025)
  • Mr Ogese Samuel, co-manager of the farm
  • Miss Maranata Fadawa, director in the farm