Data from the National Bureau of Statistics shows that Nigeria has recorded a 44.48 per cent increased in food and beverage imports, with the value reaching N677.3 billion in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, while some processed food imports slightly declined.
imports of primary food items for domestic and industrial use grew. This trend has renewed concerns about Nigeria’s heavy reliance on imported food and the pressures it places on the nation’s foreign exchange reserves.
Stakeholders in the agricultural and business sectors linked the surge to weak local production capacity, insecurity, and inconsistent agricultural policies. According to the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Agric Group, many Nigerians still prefer imported food products because they associate them with better quality and reliability. Poor storage systems, inadequate funding for farmers, and weak commodity boards have also contributed to supply instability, making local produce less competitive.
In addition, insecurity has forced many farmers to abandon their farmlands, leading to reduced agricultural output. Experts noted that Nigeria’s farming methods remain technologically backward compared to other countries. For example, while Nigeria needs about 30 acres to produce 10 tons of cassava, countries like the Netherlands achieve the same output on much smaller land areas due to advanced technology. This gap presents both a challenge and an opportunity for investment in mechanisation and agricultural innovation.
However, stakeholders warn that rising import figures do not mean Nigerians are buying more or living better. Inflation and economic hardship have reduced purchasing power, pushing many people toward cheaper food options.
To reverse the growing dependence on imports, experts emphasized the need for a coordinated policy approach—addressing insecurity, improving storage and value-addition processes, encouraging private sector investment, and providing stronger financial support for farmers and food processors.
