In a world where big agribusinesses dominate, Nigeria’s small-scale farmers quietly stand their ground, proving they can compete beyond our borders. These farmers, who make up the backbone of Nigeria’s agriculture, face many challenges—from lack of access to modern equipment to limited funding and poor infrastructure. Yet, they continue to feed millions and even export their goods to global markets.
Small-scale farming in Nigeria is mostly about crops like cassava, cocoa, groundnuts, and palm oil. Nigeria is among the world’s top producers of these staples, largely thanks to smallholder farmers working hard on their modest plots. The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) estimates that about 80% of Nigeria’s food supply comes from these farmers. That’s no small feat.
But competing globally isn’t easy. The challenges start at home: poor roads make it difficult to transport goods quickly; limited access to quality seeds and fertilisers restrict yields; and climate change threatens harvests with unpredictable weather. On top of that, many farmers struggle to get loans or government support, making it harder to scale up or improve production methods.
Despite these hurdles, some Nigerian farmers are breaking through. For example, the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) reports rising exports of cocoa and cashew nuts, largely driven by farmers who partner with exporters and meet international quality standards. Organisations like the African Development Bank have also launched initiatives to support small-scale farmers by providing training and funding.
Technology is playing a vital role too. Mobile apps now connect farmers directly to buyers, cutting out middlemen and improving profits. Digital platforms also offer weather forecasts and market prices, helping farmers make smarter decisions. The youth, armed with smartphones and fresh ideas, are increasingly joining agriculture, bringing innovation to age-old practices.
There’s also a growing awareness about organic and sustainable farming. Global consumers want healthier and ethically produced food, and Nigerian farmers who adopt these methods find better prices abroad. This shift opens new doors, especially in Europe and North America, where demand for organic products is rising fast.
However, more needs to be done. The government must improve infrastructure and provide better financial support tailored for smallholders. Private companies should invest in cold storage and processing facilities to reduce post-harvest losses. And there must be stronger policies to protect farmers from unfair trade practices.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s small-scale farmers are not just surviving—they are learning to thrive in a tough global market. Their success story is a blend of resilience, innovation, and support from public and private sectors. As the world watches, these farmers show that with the right tools and backing, they can compete and win on the global stage, putting Nigeria firmly on the map of agricultural exporters.
Nigeria’s future food security and economic growth depend heavily on these small-scale heroes. Let’s give them the spotlight and support they truly deserve.
