IMPORT DEPENDENCY AND FOOD SECURITY IN NIGERIA (2015-2024)

Abstract

This study investigates Nigeria's escalating food security crisis, which stems from a heavy reliance on imported food despite the country's vast agricultural potential. Once agriculturally self-sufficient, Nigeria now grapples with challenges including internal conflicts, inflation, inadequate rural infrastructure, and external shocks like the Russia-Ukraine war. The objective is to identify the root causes of import dependency and its economic and social impacts while exploring viable policy interventions. Using a qualitative approach and guided by Dependency Theory, the research reviews relevant literature, government policies from 2015 to 2024, and socio-political dynamics influencing food access and affordability. Findings reveal that terrorism, farmer-herder conflicts, poor infrastructure, and inconsistent policy implementation have collectively reduced local food production and increased vulnerability to global supply chain disruptions. Inflation and currency depreciation further reduce purchasing power, pushing millions into hunger. Government interventions, such as the Anchor Borrowers' Programme and the Agricultural Promotion Policy, have had limited success due to poor enforcement, corruption, and lack of continuity. The study is significant for its potential to inform national policy, offering practical solutions to build agricultural resilience, promote local food production, and reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imports. It recommends targeted investments in rural infrastructure, enhanced conflict resolution, financial support for farmers, and consistent, transparent policy implementation as essential strategies to ensure sustainable food security and economic stability.