Climate change, rising insecurity, and inadequate government support for agriculture have been identified as key drivers of the current scarcity of seasonal crops like corn and African pea in Rivers State.
A former Rivers State Agricultural Development Programme manager, Vitalis Chinda-Gbule, told our correspondent that the unusually short harmattan season last year significantly affected pea production.
He explained that poor irrigation practices also contributed to low corn yields, noting that improved irrigation could allow year-round cultivation despite irregular rainfall.
“How many African pea plantations do we have? A subsistent system of planting is becoming difficult to meet the needs of the people. The government needs to look into these systems and ensure that pea plantation is part of its plans, if not the demand will be high and the supply low,” Chinda-Gbule said.
He added that environmental degradation is compounding the problem. On corn specifically, he pointed to insecurity as a major barrier.
“One of the factors that is affecting the production of corn is insecurity. In Rivers State, communities like Omerelu, Elele, Isiokpo, Obele, Ibaa, Omudioga that produce corn in large quantities now rarely go to the farm due to constant attacks from armed men,” he stressed.
Chinda-Gbule warned that insecurity and insufficient attention to the agricultural sector are driving a decline in food production. He expressed fears of intense food scarcity if the sector continues to suffer from lack of policy support and investment. He called on government at all levels to prioritize commercial pea plantations, expand irrigation infrastructure, and address insecurity in farming communities to safeguard food security in the state.
