Stuck in a Rut : A Review of the Interplay Between Agriculture, Poverty and Food Security in Nigeria

Owing to its contribution to employment and non-oil revenue, agriculture remains a mainstay of Nigeria's economy. The study attempts a contextualisation of agricultural development and its relationship with poverty and food security in Nigeria. The methodology adopted involves the review of relevant literature and analyses of secondary data. The study established that agriculture has lost its exalted status in Nigeria's international trade outlook, with the nation being import-dependent. Besides the overdependence on oil, the study highlights critical constraints responsible for the unsatisfactory performance of the agricultural sector. The neglect of agriculture has coincided with a steady increase in poverty levels, accompanied with persisting issues of food insecurity. Prevalence of undernourishment is also positively associated with poverty or deprivation levels. The study recommends among others, renewed efforts towards economic diversification, increased investment and support for the agricultural sector particularly smallholders, as well as the development and long-term implementation of well thought-out agricultural policies.