The Federation of Agricultural Commodity Associations of Nigeria (FACAN) says agriculture contributes more than 35 per cent to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employs over 35 per cent of the national workforce.
FACAN President, Mr Sheriff Balogun, stated this on Thursday at the 2025 National Agricultural Show in Nasarawa.
The theme of the event was: “Empowering Smallholder Farmers: Restoring Value; Ensuring Productivity for the Attainment of Food Security in Nigeria.”
The annual agricultural show is organized by the National Agricultural Foundation of Nigeria (NAFN) in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS) and other partners.
Balogun said agriculture remained a stabilizing force in Nigeria’s economic and social development, supporting more than 75 per cent of rural households.
“Critically, agriculture provides over 80 per cent of the daily nutritional intake of more than 200 million Nigerians, making it central to our food security and national well-being.
“The primary agricultural sector alone contributes between 22 and 24 per cent of GDP.
“When the entire value chain is included—such as agro-processing, logistics, inputs, mechanization, storage, packaging and export services—it accounts for more than 35 per cent of total GDP impact,” he said.
Speaking on the significance of the 17th edition of the National Agricultural Show, Balogun described it as a strategic platform for national growth, sectoral collaboration and economic stability.
He commended the founding fathers of NAFN for their foresight nearly two decades ago, noting that the platform had evolved into the country’s premier hub for agricultural policy dialogue and innovation.
“Their vision continues to inspire the mechanization and competitiveness of Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
“The show has grown into a national hub where farmers present the richness of the country’s primary production, processors and exporters establish new business partnerships, and women and youth find opportunities across the value chain.
“I appreciate NAFN for sustaining this great national institution, one that continues to strengthen the backbone of the country’s economy,” he said.
