An agricultural expert, Dr. Tunde Arosanyin, has sounded a stark warning that escalating insecurity in Okunland, Kogi West Senatorial District, poses an existential threat to agricultural production in the area.
Delivering a paper titled “The Impact of Insecurity on the Agricultural Value Chain in Okunland” at the recent Okun Development Association (ODA) Summit in Kabba, Dr. Arosanyin emphasized the urgent need for coordinated action to protect farmers and ensure food security.
“Insecurity is a great threat to Agricultural Value Chain Development, impacting on it negatively and if not addressed holistically, it can lead to grave socioeconomic collapse of the Okun nation,” he warned.
Using a MEAL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning) analysis, Dr. Arosanyin broke down the complex crisis, highlighting the effects of kidnappings, killings, and farmland destruction across various communities in Okunland.
He noted that insecurity is crippling the region’s agricultural value chain, calling for strategic collaboration among stakeholders to mitigate its impact.
Dr. Arosanyin identified key challenges such as the influx of unprofiled strangers, unguided spaces in farmlands and forests, and unchecked nomadic activities.
He also stressed the importance of youth engagement and stronger political support for the agricultural sector.
Among his recommendations were the promotion of tree crop planting, empowering young people through agri-business opportunities, and a holistic approach to security that involves the entire community.
“If you see something, please say something to the appropriate authorities,” Dr. Arosanyin urged, emphasizing collective responsibility for regional safety.
The summit, themed “Unlocking Okunland’s Full Potential Through Strategic Partnerships,” brought together stakeholders from various sectors to explore solutions to the ongoing security crisis threatening the region’s development.
