Rice Farmers Sound Alarm Over Low Production Amid Rising Demand

The Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN) has raised concerns about the low production output in the rice sector, despite rising demand.

According to RIFAN Lagos State Chairman, Mr. Raphael Hunsa, the main issue is inconsistencies among farmers, which hinders the sector’s growth.

Hunsa noted that rice production in Lagos has been steady, but it’s not enough to meet the growing demand.

Last year, the state produced only 3,800 tonnes of rice, which falls short of the market demand.

He emphasized that the government’s support and interventions are crucial, but farmers must also be consistent in cultivating rice.

Climate change is another significant challenge facing rice farmers. The Deputy Chairman of the All-Farmers Association of Nigeria, Mr. Shakin Agbayewa, pointed out that climate change affects rice production, and many farmers lack access to irrigation systems.

This leads to delayed cultivation, and when farmers finally plant, they risk losing their crops to flooding.

To address these challenges, Hunsa urged farmers to remain consistent in cultivation and advised the government to channel empowerment initiatives through association leaders.

Agbayewa emphasized the need for government intervention in providing irrigation systems to increase production output.

The National Bureau of Statistics estimates rice consumption in Lagos at 7.4 million metric tonnes (MMT) for 2024/25, driven by consumers’ preference for rice as a more affordable staple food.