Lack of Farm Inputs and Seedlings Among Local Farmers: A Major Driver of Food Insecurity in Nigeria

Food insecurity remains one of the most pressing socio-economic challenges facing Nigeria despite the country's vast agricultural potential. Agriculture serves as the primary livelihood for millions of Nigerians and contributes significantly to employment, poverty reduction, and national food production. However, local farmers continue to experience severe shortages of essential farm inputs, including improved seedlings, fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and modern farming equipment. Combined with limited government support and poor access to agricultural finance, these challenges have substantially reduced agricultural productivity and worsened food insecurity. This article examines how inadequate access to farm inputs and seedlings affects food production in Nigeria, explores the underlying institutional and financial constraints, and recommends practical policy measures for improving agricultural productivity and national food security.