Agricultural experts and policymakers in Nigeria are calling for renewed investment in indigenous crops as a key strategy to build climate-resilient food systems and reduce reliance on food imports.

The call was made during a Farmer-Scientist Engagement Programme and Stakeholders Summit held at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture in Abia State, where participants emphasized the need to align research, policy, and farming practices to address climate challenges.

Bridging Science and Farming

The initiative, supported by the University of Cambridge and the Mastercard Foundation, is focused on strengthening Nigeria’s capacity for climate resilience through innovation and biotechnology.

Speakers highlighted the importance of connecting scientific research with real-world farming practices, ensuring that innovations reach smallholder farmers who are most vulnerable to climate shocks.

Indigenous Crops Offer Climate Advantage

At the center of the discussions was the role of traditional African crops, which are naturally adapted to local environments and more resilient to drought and extreme weather.

Researchers pointed to crops such as Bambara beans, cocoyam, and indigenous yams as underutilized resources that could play a major role in improving food security. Despite their potential, these crops have received limited attention in research and policy, contributing to their gradual decline.

Revitalizing indigenous crop systems, experts argued, could help Nigeria reduce its heavy food import bill—estimated at $75 billion annually—while preserving cultural heritage and supporting local farming communities.

Climate Change Threatens Food Systems

Climate change continues to pose a serious risk to agriculture, with increasing occurrences of droughts, erratic rainfall, and extreme weather events affecting productivity.

Experts stressed that building resilience requires not only adapting farming practices but also strengthening institutions and communities to better respond to environmental shocks. This includes improving access to inputs, infrastructure, and knowledge.

Policy and Collaboration Key to Progress

Government representatives outlined ongoing efforts to promote climate-smart agriculture through policy reforms, public awareness, and agribusiness development initiatives.

However, stakeholders emphasized that lasting impact will depend on stronger collaboration between farmers, researchers, and policymakers. By working together, they can develop practical, scalable solutions that enhance productivity and sustainability.

Outlook

The renewed focus on indigenous crops signals a shift toward more sustainable and locally adapted agricultural systems in Nigeria.

With the right investment in research, value addition, and farmer support, these crops could become a cornerstone of climate resilience—helping to secure food systems while driving rural development.