Achieving Food Security: Why Nigerians Must Embrace Local Crops Over Imported GMO Seeds
By the National Patriots.
As the world grapples with economic challenges, Nigeria must prioritize agricultural self-sufficiency by reducing dependence on imported genetically modified (GMO) seeds. While GMO crops are widely marketed as high-yield solutions, concerns persist over their potential health risks and long-term environmental impact. Instead, embracing indigenous, organic farming techniques can safeguard food security, boost exports, and promote national prosperity.
A Breakthrough in Yam Cultivation
A recent discovery by a Nigerian farmer demonstrates how one tuber of yam, when cut into 50 small pieces, can yield 50 fully grown yams at harvest. If widely adopted, this technique could revolutionize yam production, allowing families to cultivate hundreds of tubers from just a few. Given that yam is a staple food in Nigeria, this innovation could significantly reduce food scarcity and enhance local farming practices.
The Versatility of Yam & Plantain in Nigerian Cuisine
Yam is a central component of Nigerian diets, used in diverse and nutritious meals such as:
Yam porridge with tomatoes, pepper, green vegetables, and red oil with dry fish.
Boiled yam served with gravy or palm oil.
Roasted yam eaten with spicy palm oil sauce.
Grated yam (Epankwuko) wrapped in leaves and steamed with spices, periwinkles.
Grated Yam (Ikokore)steamed with pepper, dry fish, spinach, red oil and spices.
Pounded yam, paired with melon seed stew (egusi) and smoked fish or meat.
Plantain could also be used to prepare the same dishes to replace Yam as an alternative. Pounded plantain is a special delicacy with rich palm kernel (Banga) soup with fish.
Roasted Plantain is a favorite with red oil or peanuts.
Plantain porridge is also a specialty.
Sweet potatoes could also be prepared in the same style. Nigeria has a rich potential for organic food which is untapped, and we hope the people will start to realize the possibilities available to them. The Yam tubers are grown in small sacks and not in a garden or farmland. Anyone can grow them.
With improved farming techniques, Nigeria can ensure an abundant yam supply for both domestic consumption and export.
The Need for Organic Crops Over GMO Seeds
Nigeria is blessed with fertile land, abundant water sources, and favorable weather conditions for agriculture. Yet, the increasing reliance on imported GMO seeds threatens both food independence and health. Organic crops, such as Yoruba Ofada rice, are rich in nutrients, naturally resilient, and better suited for Nigeria’s climate. Unlike some GMO rice varieties, Ofada rice is free from genetic alterations, making it a healthier and more sustainable choice for Nigerians.
Policy Recommendations for Food Security
1. Promote Local Seed Cultivation – Farmers should be encouraged to use and preserve indigenous seed varieties, reducing reliance on imports.
2. Support Organic Farming – Government policies should prioritize organic agriculture over GMO crops to protect public health and biodiversity.
3. Invest in Agricultural Education – Training programs should equip farmers with innovative techniques, such as multiplying yam yields.
4. Encourage Local Rice Production – Nigerian farmers should focus on growing organic rice varieties, ensuring food self-sufficiency and reducing imports.
5. Emphasize National Patriotism in Agriculture – A national policy favoring homegrown food over imports is essential for long-term sustainability.
Conclusion
With its vast agricultural potential, Nigeria has no reason to depend on imported food or GMO seeds. By embracing organic farming, innovative cultivation methods, and patriotic food policies, the country can achieve true food security. The time for action is now—farmers must plant ahead of the rainy season to ensure a bountiful harvest for all.
Princess Dr. Gloria. A. Adebajo-Fraser MFR.
Founder, The National Patriots.
Publisher, Headlinenews.news.
