Before the annexation of the northern and southern protectorates of Nigeria, agriculture has been one of the major sustenance of the country, and west Africa as a whole. But unfortunately, since the biginning of the exploitation of oil or petroleum in the early 1970s, agriculture has worn a backward outlook. Moving from being 95%- 7% of Nigerian GNP, causing a mono-economy and affecting grossly our economic growth. It is therefore imperative for the government to show intense interest in Agriculture for the aforementioned and following reasons.
Firstly, agriculture can help in generating most of the food items needed in the country which are hitherto imported from other nations. This will serve as a quick check for the growing inflation in the country. The production of these foodstuffs will help reduce their prices, making it available for the low class in the society. This can also help to prevent the further incidence of diseases Like kwashiokor which results from malnutrition, preserve lives and secure the future.
Moreover, agriculture provides the major raw materials used in industries. Thus, the future of the country’s industrial sector rests on the shoulder of the agricultural sector. Agriculture provides raw resources for industries while they in turn provides implements and machines used in farming. Therefore to generate industrilization which the whole country is concerned about, agriculture must be shown some interest.
Thirdly, agriculture provides secure employment for farmers, fishermen, hunters and many others. The various components of agriculture which includes: crop production, livestock, fishery, forestry etc., provides recruitment for thousands of elders and millions of youths. Therefore reducing the rate of unemployment, dependence and national expenditure. If agriculture is shown more interest, employment is sure for highly skilled graduates.
Lastly, the amount of income agriculture can generate for both individuals and the government cannot be overemphasized. Agriculture, if well developed, maintained and managed can generate the whole necessary expenditure of the government without leaving out laymen. Both internally and foreign basis, domestic and export, agricultural products are highly purchased and requested for.
With the state of things in the country, income generators are highly needed.
The above aforementioned benefits will all be gained and acquired, if only the state, comprising of the government and the governed can be effective in showing interest to the agricultural sector in its budget—income and expenditure.
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