The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has warned that Nigeria’s efforts to achieve food sufficiency and reduce dependence on food imports may remain elusive unless authorities take stronger and more coordinated action against insecurity across the country.
The monarch made the remarks on Friday during an interfaith prayer programme held at the ancient Oyo Palace, where he described insecurity as the most significant obstacle confronting agricultural production and food security in rural communities.
According to a statement issued by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, Oba Owoade said persistent attacks, kidnappings and other security threats have continued to frustrate farmers despite government interventions aimed at boosting agricultural output.
He argued that no agricultural policy can deliver the desired results if farmers are unable to access their farmlands safely.
The traditional ruler lamented a situation where food producers must contend with armed criminals before carrying out their farming activities, stressing that such conditions are incompatible with genuine food security objectives.
According to him, the protection of lives and property remains the bedrock of national development, economic growth and social stability.
He noted that a secure environment encourages cooperation among communities and strengthens national unity.
Oba Owoade further observed that kidnapping, banditry and other forms of rural insecurity have severely disrupted farming operations in many parts of the country, leading to reduced agricultural productivity and worsening food inflation.
He explained that attacks on rural communities often force farmers to abandon their lands, while many victims of kidnapping are compelled to sell livestock, assets and productive resources to secure their freedom.
This, he said, leaves affected households without the financial capacity to purchase farm inputs such as seeds, fertilisers and equipment.
The Oyo monarch added that the consequences extend beyond agriculture, as insecurity also weakens local economies, disrupts supply chains and restricts commercial activities in rural areas.
According to him, the continued displacement of farmers and the collapse of agricultural activities in affected communities have contributed significantly to food shortages and rising prices across the country.
Speaking on the significance of the interfaith prayer session, the monarch said prayer remains an important instrument for promoting peace, unity and mutual understanding among citizens, particularly during periods of national difficulty.
He noted that lasting peace requires justice and reconciliation, adding that collective prayers can help foster dialogue, heal divisions and strengthen the bonds that unite communities.
Oba Owoade also emphasised the importance of unity across ethnic, religious and cultural lines, saying Nigerians must continue to pursue common goals that promote national progress and peaceful coexistence.
In her remarks, Abiwunmi Owoade, the Queen Consort, urged residents to sustain the values of love, harmony and prayer.
She maintained that meaningful community development can only flourish in an atmosphere of peace and mutual understanding.
Among dignitaries present at the event were the Chief Imam of Oyo, Bilaal Akinola; the Oyo State Commander of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria, Sunday Olamide; Islamic scholar, Daud Ogun; representatives of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Oyo Zone, community leaders and traditional rulers.
