Operation Feed the Nation (OFN) was an agricultural initiative launched in 1976 by the military administration of General Olusegun Obasanjo. It was designed to address food insecurity, promote self-sufficiency in food production, and reduce Nigeria’s dependence on food imports.
The program sought to engage all Nigerians, from rural farmers to urban dwellers, in agricultural activities to boost food production and enhance national food security. Though short-lived, OFN left a lasting impact on Nigeria’s agricultural policies and development.
Key Objectives of Operation Feed the Nation
Increase food production: Encourage large-scale and small-scale farming to meet national food demands.
Reduce food imports: Promote local agricultural production to reduce reliance on foreign food supplies.
Encourage youth and urban dwellers in agriculture: Involve students, professionals, and city residents in farming initiatives.
Improve agricultural technology and extension services: Provided modern tools and training to farmers for better productivity.
Boost rural development: Strengthen rural economies by supporting farming communities.
Impact of OFN on Nigeria
1. Promotion of Agricultural Awareness
One of the most significant contributions of OFN was the increased awareness of the importance of agriculture. The program encouraged individuals, schools, and organizations to take part in farming, fostering a sense of responsibility for food production. Many urban dwellers participated in backyard farming, while students were engaged in school farms, reinforcing the idea that food production was a collective responsibility.
2. Reduction in Food Imports
Before OFN, Nigeria relied heavily on food imports. While the program did not entirely eliminate food importation, it played a role in reducing the volume of food brought into the country by boosting local production, especially in staple crops like rice, maize, and cassava. This helped Nigeria save foreign exchange that would have been spent on food imports.
3. Rural Development and Employment
OFN contributed to the development of rural areas by encouraging farming as a viable source of income. Many young people who might have migrated to urban centers in search of white-collar jobs were encouraged to stay in rural areas and engage in farming. The government also invested in rural infrastructure, such as roads and irrigation systems, to support agricultural activities.
4. Influence on Future Agricultural Policies
Although OFN was discontinued in 1979, it laid the foundation for subsequent agricultural policies. The Green Revolution program of the 1980s and later initiatives such as the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) were influenced by the goals of OFN. The program highlighted the need for government intervention in agriculture and the importance of self-sufficiency in food production.
Challenges and Shortcomings
Despite its successes, OFN faced several challenges, including:
Poor continuity – The program ended when the civilian administration of Shehu Shagari took over in 1979, leading to a loss of momentum.
Inadequate infrastructure: Many farmers still lacked access to proper roads, irrigation, and modern farming equipment.
Corruption and mismanagement: Like many government programs, there were reports of funds being mismanaged, limiting the effectiveness of the initiative.
Operation Feed the Nation was a significant agricultural policy that left a lasting mark on Nigeria’s food production landscape.
While it had its shortcomings, it succeeded in raising awareness about agriculture, promoting local food production, and influencing future policies. Its legacy remains a reminder of the importance of government-led agricultural initiatives in achieving food security and economic development.
