Expert Canvases Family Farming to Achieve Food Security

… Urges Nigerians to Embrace Organic Farming

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

A sustainable agriculture food security expert, Saidat Shonoiki, has advocated for the adoption of family farming and organic agriculture as sustainable strategies to achieve food security and ensure a healthy lifestyle in Nigeria.

Shonoiki stated this at a two day workshop, organized by the Multiplier Group in organic agriculture yesterday in Abuja, the event was tagged ;The principles and practice of organic agriculture.

Shonoiki stated that agriculture is currently at a crossroads and under increasing pressure to provide enough food that is both affordable and nutritious for the teeming population.

She urged Nigerians to use the space in their homes as gardens to grow what they ate, noting that such efforts will enhance food security and healthy living.

A climate change expert and trainer for the Multiplier Group in organic agriculture, Mrs. Stella Uzochukwu Dennis, highlighted the necessity of training to address the harmful effects of synthetic chemicals in farming and emphasized the importance of intentional organic practices to tackle food insecurity.

Dennis said it was time for Nigerians to watch what they ate, while she urged Nigerians to adopt organic foods as against food with pesticides that was dangerous to human health.

She noted that many people mistakenly believe they are practicing organic agriculture but are not fully aware of the requirements. The training aims to clarify these misconceptions and promote true organic farming practices.

Dennis highlighted that organic agriculture could significantly improve food security by encouraging more people to engage in farming, even on a small scale like backyard gardens. He shared his own experience with organic methods, using natural materials such as cow and chicken bones for fertilizer, which has proven effective without relying on chemical inputs.

She also addressed the issue of seed sustainability, stressing the importance of using seeds that can be replanted rather than those requiring repeated purchases, as seen with genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Organic farming supports seed autonomy and reduces dependency on external sources for seeds and fertilizers.

Regarding certification, Dennis explained that the process is crucial for validating organic practices. Farmers must invite certifiers to inspect their farms, and collective efforts within communities can help manage the costs associated with certification. This ensures that farms meet organic standards and can confidently market their produce as organically certified.

Dennis concluded by advocating for broader adoption of organic farming practices to enhance food security and sustainability, encouraging participants to embrace these methods and support their implementation.