An announcement attributed to the Niger State Governor about restricting food movement has sparked serious concern. When producing states prioritize local supplies, other regions may face shortages. Food security matters.

Niger State supplies quantities of grains consumed across Nigeria, including markets in the South West. Restricting movement could expose deeper weaknesses within our national food distribution system. Dependence creates vulnerability.

Joseph understood the wisdom of preparing during abundance for difficult years ahead. Today, every state must strengthen production, storage, processing, and distribution before scarcity becomes widespread. Preparation protects communities today.

This situation should remind governments that food scarcity is not merely an agricultural problem; it is an economic, social, and national security concern requiring urgent coordinated action immediately right now.

Every state must increase local food production while protecting farmers, improving security, supporting affordable inputs, reducing postharvest losses, and strengthening markets. Waiting until hunger becomes severe is dangerous. Act now.

Best regards,

Abdullah Opeyemi Akande
B.Agric. (FUNAAB)
GAS (NIAS)
M.Sc. Animal Sci. (UI)
RAS (NIAS)
M.Sc. Int’l Business (UU, UK)
Ph.D. in view