By Osehobo Ofure, Benin City
The Managing Director of the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority, Dr. Femi Adekanbi, has raised alarm over the declining state of food production in Nigeria, blaming it on the nation’s poor farming culture. He revealed that out of the 10,000 hectares of land allocated for agricultural use across the country, less than 500 hectares are currently being cultivated.
Dr. Adekanbi made this known during a courtesy visit to His Royal Majesty, Asagba Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, the 14th Asagba of Asaba, at his palace in Asaba, Delta State.
While addressing the monarch, Dr. Adekanbi emphasized the urgent need to reinvigorate farming in local communities and proposed a collaboration between the River Basin Authority and traditional rulers in Delta State to promote agriculture as a sustainable means of livelihood.
“Our people are hungry not because we lack land, but because we are not cultivating it,” he said. “Out of the 10,000 hectares earmarked for farming nationwide, less than 500 are in active use. That is unacceptable.”
As part of efforts to address the food crisis, Dr. Adekanbi disclosed that 200 hectares have been set aside in Delta North for rice production. If managed properly, the project could yield up to 10,000 bags of rice every quarter, a move he said would significantly reduce the rising cost of rice in the market.
He acknowledged that insecurity remains a major challenge to farming activities but maintained that the authority would not be discouraged. According to him, the River Basin Authority is ready to support genuine farmers by providing land and seedlings and is keen to work closely with traditional leaders to identify and empower willing participants in their communities.
Dr. Adekanbi’s message aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s broader agenda of achieving food security and reducing dependence on food imports. He stressed that the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority under his leadership is committed to implementing strategic agricultural projects that will boost local food production, crash prices, and improve food availability across the country.
In response, HRM Asagba Azinge warmly welcomed Dr. Adekanbi and his delegation, describing the visit as timely and inspiring. He commended the team on their appointments, which he said reflect their competence, passion, and commitment to national service.
“I am pleased by your zeal and vision,” the Asagba said. “The authority has been around for years, but many would agree its presence has not been felt as it should. I am optimistic that your leadership will restore its relevance.”
The Asagba emphasized the importance of leadership and vision, adding that Nigerians are more likely to support leaders who demonstrate purpose and inspire trust. He also referenced the “Operation Feed the Nation” initiative of the 1970s, lamenting that despite its lofty goals, the lack of political will has hindered its success.
“You have the chance to change the narrative,” he told Dr. Adekanbi. “This is a defining moment for the River Basin Authority. We must believe in ourselves and produce what we eat.”
The monarch pledged to convey the Managing Director’s message to the Council of Traditional Rulers in Delta State and to his subjects, offering the blessings of Ani Ahaba to the delegation and their mission.
Also speaking during the visit, Chief Dr. Austin Izagbo, the Ide of Ibusa, praised the Asagba for his accomplishments within just six months on the throne, noting that the rapid developments seen in the kingdom were a testament to his visionary leadership.
The visit marked a renewed call to action, blending federal government efforts with traditional institutions in a shared mission to revive agriculture and secure the nation’s food future.
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