Agriculture and security experts have raised concerns over the reported ban on farming activities by Boko Haram insurgents in parts of Borno State, warning that the development could threaten Nigeria’s food security and deepen insecurity across the country.
Speaking in an interview with The News Chronicle on Thursday, an agricultural expert, Malam Rabiu, said the restriction on farming in some communities of Borno State would have serious consequences for food production and national stability.
According to him, farming remains the backbone of every nation, and preventing farmers from cultivating their land could lead to food shortages, hunger, and increased displacement of rural populations.
He expressed concern that many villagers may be forced to abandon their homes and seek refuge in neighbouring countries if adequate security is not provided.
Malam Rabiu further stated that some local government areas in Borno State have continued to face threats from insurgents despite ongoing military operations against terrorist groups.
He warned that insecurity affecting farming communities in the North-East and North-West could significantly reduce agricultural output, stressing that Borno State has historically contributed substantially to food production in Nigeria.
The agricultural expert also called on the Federal Government to prioritise domestic food security, arguing that the country should focus on meeting local food needs amid growing security challenges.
Similarly, a Maiduguri-based philosopher, Mr. Lawan, expressed concern over the worsening security situation in parts of the country. He attributed the rise in insecurity partly to unemployment and lack of economic opportunities for young people.
According to him, preventing farmers from accessing their farmlands could expose vulnerable individuals to recruitment by terrorist and criminal groups.
He noted that communities in parts of the North-West, North-Central, and some areas of Bauchi and Gombe states continue to face security challenges and urged the Nigerian military and relevant authorities to intensify efforts to restore peace and protect citizens.
Both experts called for urgent action to address insecurity and ensure that farmers can safely return to their fields in order to safeguard the nation’s food supply and economic stability.
