Nigeria Governors’ Forum calls for data-driven rice production solutions

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and the Bank of Agriculture (BOA) have advocated for a coordinated, data-driven approach to address Nigeria’s significant rice production deficit. During the unveiling of the North-West Region Regional Rice Sector Diagnostic Report in Abuja, officials highlighted a major supply gap: Nigeria produces approximately 3.3 million metric tons of rice annually, while consumption is estimated at 8.6 million metric tons, a figure projected to reach 9.1 million by 2027.

NGF Director-General Abdulateef Shittu identified policy inconsistencies, poor budgeting, and unreliable data as primary obstacles to food security. He suggested that Nigeria could become a net exporter to African and European markets if efforts are better coordinated. To support this, the NGF Helpdesk has established a dedicated data department and is encouraging states to create their own Bureaus of Statistics.

Ayodeji Sotinrin, Managing Director of the Bank of Agriculture, announced that the bank aims to finance 700,000 farmers during the 2026 wet season. He noted a strategic shift away from direct cash microcredits to prevent defaults and non-performing loans.