The National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services has reported that there were increments in the production costs for staple crops like rice and maize.
In its 2024 Wet Season Agricultural Performance report, the firm revealed that rice production costs have surged by 37.8 per cent, from N423,400 per hectare in 2023 to N583,505 in 2024.
Similarly, maize production costs have skyrocketed by 69.7 per cent, rising from N330,621 to N561,237 per hectare.
The Executive Director of the firm, Prof. Emmanuel Ikani, during the report’s presentation in Abuja on Friday, said the increase in production costs will create significant barriers for many families in Nigeria, making it more difficult for them to access these essential food items.
The report highlighted a challenging agricultural landscape shaped by adverse weather conditions.
Rainfall data indicated a substantial decrease in 2024, resulting in a widespread dry spell across 33 states and escalating pest and disease infestations that have devastated various crops.
Ikani noted, “The dry conditions have led to lower yields, compounding the already high production costs.”
In addition, the report detailed the devastating impact of flooding across 31 states, particularly in the North-East region.
“Farmers are facing a perfect storm of rising costs and declining yields,” Ikani remarked.
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