How Nigeria Lost Out in 'Operation Feed The Nation': Obasanjo Speaks Out

"Hear how former President Olusegun Obasanjo explains what went wrong with Nigeria's food self-sufficiency in the wake of 'Operation Feed The Nation.' Learn what critical policy changes undercut the program's success and its broader implications for the future of agriculture in Nigeria."

At a think-tank event by Legit.ng, former President Olusegun Obasanjo exposed the reasons behind Nigeria's challenges with being sufficient in food. He particularly centered on the failing structure of "Operation Feed The Nation" (OFN). Inaugurated by the then head of state on May 20, 1976, OFN was conceived to propel farm output in the country to the level where it could be self-reliant in food.

He was to note later how promising the initiative was turning out to be shortly after the launch of OFN. According to Obasanjo, the federal Ministry of Agriculture conducted a survey in July of that year. After this research work, it projected that, before too long, Nigeria would attain self-sufficiency in rice production. This was a landmark statement coming on the reality that had been doubted of the workability of the initiative in its inception, days ago.

This optimism over OFN did not last so long after all. Obasanjo said one key decision of his successor, then President Shehu Shagari, was really instrumental in throws off the program to success. The Shagari Administration decided to jettison the rice production policy that formed part of the cardinal philosophies of the OFN strategy immediately after Obasanjo's exit. The move threw a big spanner into the works; it became, according to Obasanjo, a critical factor in the failure of Nigeria to achieve food self-sufficiency in later years.

Obasanjo's reflections underline a much broader issue of loose ends in the agricultural policies and governance of the country. OFN could transform Nigeria's food security landscape, but changes in leadership and new policy priorities scaled down its success greatly. Obasanjo's insights underline the importance of sustaining agricultural initiatives for long-term food security.

As the nation continues to grapple with issues of food insecurity, the lessons drawn from the OFN and Obasanjo's honest assessment call for a coherent and enduring agricultural policy. Looking forward, it is incumbent on Nigeria to draw from past experiences in resolving policy inconsistencies and creating an environment that will sustain itself for achievements of sustainable agricultural development.

Do not miss out on this blog; follow for the latest information on Agribusiness and Agricultural policies on food security in Nigeria.