As Nigeria grapples with persistent food and economic challenges, more citizens are turning to agriculture as a means of survival and resilience. Among the most notable trends is the rise of urban farming, which is quietly emerging as a practical response to the country’s food crisis. In cities across the nation, residents are increasingly relying on small-scale cultivation not only to feed their households but also to generate income.

Urban agriculture has long existed on the margins, but recent pressures—rising costs, unstable supply chains, and limited access to fresh produce—have accelerated its adoption. From rooftops in Lagos to backyard plots in Abuja, Nigerians are experimenting with innovative methods such as hydroponics, aquaponics, and container gardening. These systems are helping households cope with food inflation and supply disruptions that have become part of daily life.

The story of Ifeoluwa Adedayo, a 27-year-old graduate in Lagos, illustrates this shift. She began a modest hydroponic farm on the rooftop of her family home in Surulere as a way to offset rising food prices. What started as a personal project soon attracted interest from local restaurants, and she now supplies fresh produce to three neighborhood eateries. Her experience reflects a broader pattern of urban residents transforming necessity into opportunity.

Urban farming is not only helping households manage costs but also contributing to local food systems in meaningful ways. By reducing reliance on distant supply chains and creating new avenues for entrepreneurship, these initiatives are reshaping Nigeria’s agricultural landscape. As more citizens embrace small-scale cultivation, urban agriculture is proving to be a vital tool for food security and sustainability in the face of economic uncertainty.