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National TRAIL Podium: My Fears Over Food Security in Nigeria-Dilli
*Give us an introductory background to who Mai Madu Dilli, (Sarkin Noman Biu Emirate) is.*
I would rather be brief for I have a lot of stories to tell about Mai Madu Ali Dili and so here I summarise,
Born in Biu( Ruth Royer Memorial Hospital Garkida) had my early education in Biu Bauchi and Jos from 1963 to 1973, had my GCE and got employed by the North eastern state government ministry of Natural Resources in Maiduguri,
Initially posted to Dikwa and later taken to Borno Cattle Ranch Gombole, the only cattle ranch in Northern Nigeria then, here I was exposed to cattle ranching as it was then manned by seasoned Nigerian professionals and experts from America and Australia volunteer services,while there I got admitted into the ABU College of Agriculture Samaru Zaria to read Agric in 1976 and after the pre technical I proceeded to College of Animal Science Kaduna where I specialized in Animal science, I read Diploma and came back to Borno where I joined others to establish the Gujba Cattle Ranch now in Yobe state, after a year I got admission to the National Veterinary Research Institute College of Animal Science in 1979 and obtained my HND in 1981 and went for NYSC in Cross River State I was assigned to establish a farm by the Cross River Basin Development Authority in Ikom of which I did to their satisfaction and they offered me employment but I was in the services of Borno state govt and so came back to Maiduguri but not before they gave me an Award and a lot of gifts including a street named after me in the Village,
In Maiduguri I became the officer incharge of the Livestock investigation and Breeding Centre in Dalori opposite the University of Maiduguri, but not very long Pfizer Products Limited a multinational company with Headquarters in New York offered me employment and I accepted and relocated to Lagos where I started as Technical Sales Representative incharge of the North East Nigeria, this lasted for three years, when the government of then General Buhari came in 1984 they got discouraged leading to their exit from Nigeria, however there was a management buy out and so we continued as a company but I came back to Maiduguri to open the first Animal health services store around Kasuwan Shanu we sold livestock drugs vitamins minerals and feeds, in 1985 I was approached by Alhaji Umar Sanda Birma to help in establishing a farm in Biu, which I accepted and established the Birma Agric Projects Ltd in Kur Mwabulu along Damboa road from Biu, I was later joined by some Danish Nationals in the farm and we performed wonders, for the first time while Nigeria’s maximum yield per hectare of Maize was 900kg we achieved a per hectare yield of 6500kg or 6.5 metric tones of Maize, the highest ever in Nigeria, l left Birma after three years and opened Facco Feeds Nig in Maiduguri I was producing livestock feeds for both ruminants and poultry but with the Nigerian govt policy on Agriculture not favorable under IBB I went back to Lagos to got into other trades including Clearing and Forwarding, Shipping and later importing from Germany, this lasted until after June 12 palaver, while still in Lagos I ventured into Mining along with my Italian friends, we established a mining company in Jos with a Tin Shed in Zaramaganda and Tudunwada Wada Jos,
As Lagos was becoming very uncomfortable I relocated part of my family to Abuja the new city, I was therefore going round Lagos Jo’s and Abuja, while in Abuja I do nothing I got drawn in to the world of politics culminating into my contest for the Chair of Abuja Municipal Area Council in 1996, I later became the Deputy Chairman and later acting chairman, when the then Head of state General Abatcha died the political atmosphere changed and I had become more political and so we got attracted to Borno our original home, after a long sojourn in opposition PDP we later join ANPP formed a govt, became Adviser on Agriculture to the Gov and finally Commissioner for agriculture,
Today I am practicing farmer, a Rancher and a Dairy farmer, I get involved in to value addition for I have a rice mill, a mini Flour mill, and an Oil mill, all in Biu,
His Royal Highness found it appropriate to appoint me as the Sarkin Noma of Biu emirate,
Along the journey I was also at the Agricultural College (University) Yorkshire, St Johns University York, the Ogun state University Ago Iwoye from which I obtained certificates in Horse and Equine management art, PGD and Masters in Public Administration
1.. *The rains this year has been said to be a mixed blessing. What is the situation in Borno* ?
The rainfall this year has been actually very high, we had shorter duration of it last year resulting into a dry spell which affected crop production, again this year it came higher than what may be we prayed for. We thank the God for his mercies,
For those who planted early especially Maize they may not have much problem in southern parts of the state, but I think most people for fear of last year’s experience planted much later falling into the excessive rain period, it has stunted the growth of crops especially maize,
For Cowpea otherwise known as Beans we all have suffered in majority of the farms all over the state, when there is too much moisture on ground hardly do you plant beans to germinate and so a lot lost from the state of germination , farmers are also scared and not sure of the continuations of rain which makes it risky to plant, having planted several times,
For rice it has been ok as far as precipitation is concerned, the problem is inputs this time, so generally speaking there is likely going to be shortfall in our harvest, except sorghum and millet in central and northern and some parts of southern Borno where harvest have so far been good
2. **Do you foresee the possibility of food shortage given the reported damages to farmlands?*
There is very high possibility of food shortages this year for a couple of reasons,
First of all we just talked of excessive precipitation with resultant flooding not only in Borno but in about 33 states of the federation, this destroyed farms and even farmers, there is the likelihood of the flood destroying the Irrigation structures which will affect even the irrigation farming mostly around the river basins in the dry season, also even that did not experience flood there have been erosions,
Secondly, inputs especially fertilizers and chemicals have been difficult to come by this season, for importers of of any inputs have met brick wall since the lockdown as a result of Covid-19 and scarcity of foreign exchange have lost capacity to bring in inputs, it has also resulted in scarcity of products sending the price out the ordinary farmers reach, without these inputs naturally crop yields are sure to go down making food unavailable,
Thirdly the problem of insurgency in the crop production areas of the north east and north west is contributing to the shortage of food this year, the insurgents not only stop people from farming but destroy the already planted and farms ready for harvest,
With all these factors food shortages may be experienced
3. *We understand farmers are selling off their products directly from the farm. Given the grim picture you have painted, what advice do you have for farmers, particularly in Biu emirate?*
It is actually unfortunate that farmers are now selling their produce/ harvest at the farm gate, that is the clear indication of food scarcity, but actually the problem here is the grain traders and some Rice millers from all over the nation seeing these factors are out to buy as much as they can anticipating
scarcity of especially paddy, the
desperation is such they buy paddy
for up to 30,000 naira a bag of
85/90kg, and you know the bag of 85/90kg cannot give you 50kg of polished rice so you know the rest,
The problem we have in Biu and to some extent southern Borno is the fact that we don’t have any other trade but farming and unfortunately we only have one season farming in most of the areas except may be Shani, Bayo, a bit of Hawul and A/Uba where we have rivers around for dry season farming,
In other words we work for only four months in a year and waisting the remaining eight months doing nothing
4. *What special appeals can you make to Government in the face it the foreseen situation?*
To be sincere we are even lucky in this country for having the present administration in place, if rice importation was not banned we would have been experiencing what is happening in the Horn of Africa by now, for the first time in the history of this country Nigerian farmers have been able to triple the production of rice, in so many areas around the river basins traditional vegetable crops gave way to rice farms, low lying areas all over used for rice production during the rainy season,
The Anchor Borrowers Program introduced by the President and strongly supported by the Governor and the Development Finance department and staff of the CBN changed the narratives in food production all over the country, it made people more aware of farming and technics including the use of inputs, it made farm inputs available to farmers in their locality, consultants were engaged in training and formation of farmers groups and cooperatives, the result is mass production of food all over the country,
My appeal to the government therefore,as it is now, that food shortage is imminent, the emphasis should be towards the coming dry season, the deficit can only be closed by encouraging more farmers into the dry and irrigation this time,
All over the developed world farm subsidy is a tradition, therefore instead putting all our effort in petroleum subsidies running into trillions of naira I believe part of that should be channelled into Agriculture, much as CBN has tried by introducing the Anchor Borrowers Program, money spent in core crop production is less than a trillion naira, but the impact is massive food being produced today creating a long line of value chain and jobs, in other words immediate subsidy regime be created for Agriculture especially crop and livestock farming, Agro chemicals, fertilizers, certified seeds and other farm inputs be made available at subsidized prices, as it is today the farmers capacity has been depleted, with Covid-19, last year’s dry spell and of course flood this season
Concerns raised over political tensions and potential security implications ahead of 2027 elections
Fresh allegations of attempts to undermine the administration of Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia have emerged amid reported political differences between the governor and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume.
The allegations, which have not been independently verified, concern claims of possible attempts to exploit insecurity and political divisions in the state ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to accounts provided by sources cited by the newspaper and its media partners, individuals allegedly linked to the political dispute may be considering activities intended to weaken the governor’s political standing before the next election.
However, the newspaper has not independently established the authenticity of the alleged plans, the identities of those purportedly involved, or whether any preparations have taken place.
The allegations emerge against the background of reported political tensions between Akume and Alia following the governor’s assumption of office in 2023. The nature and extent of their disagreements, as well as claims surrounding the origins of the dispute, require further verification.
There are also claims of political realignments involving members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other political actors in the state. The implications of these developments for the 2027 governorship election remain uncertain.
Separately, allegations have been raised concerning possible attempts to influence public perception of the Benue State Government through political messaging and media engagements. These claims have not been independently substantiated.
Given the seriousness of allegations involving potential threats to public safety, relevant security agencies should establish whether credible intelligence supports them and take appropriate lawful preventive action where necessary.
Authorities should also investigate any credible evidence of plans to introduce armed groups into the state, orchestrate violence, unlawfully interfere with security operations or target political opponents.
As of publication, the newspaper has not independently verified claims concerning foreign fighters, alleged financial transactions, purported operational arrangements or the identities of individuals said to be involved.
Senator Akume, Governor Alia and other individuals mentioned in connection with the allegations should be given an opportunity to respond before specific claims against them are treated as established facts.
The newspaper will publish verified responses and material findings from competent authorities as they become available.
With the 2027 elections approaching, political stakeholders have a responsibility to promote peaceful competition, discourage inflammatory allegations and ensure that credible threats to the lives and property of Benue residents receive impartial investigation.
News
2027: Tinubu Campaign Council Creates New Directorate, Names Aliyu, Olawande, Idele to Key Positions
The PBAT/APC 2027 Presidential Campaign Council has created a new Directorate of Stage Organisation and Management and adjusted the leadership of its Youth Mobilisation and Women Mobilisation directorates as preparations intensify for the 2027 presidential election.
The decision, announced in a press statement signed by the Secretary of the Council, His Excellency, Hope Uzodimma, follows the inauguration of the Presidential Campaign Council and is aimed at strengthening its organisational structure, enhancing coordination and improving operational efficiency.
Under the new arrangement, Dr. Farouk Adamu Aliyu has been appointed Director of the newly created Directorate of Stage Organisation and Management, while Rt. Hon. Adejare Bello will serve as Co-Director.
The Council also announced changes in the leadership of its Youth Mobilisation Directorate, appointing Mr. Ayo Olawande as Director and Dr. Dayo Israel as Deputy Director.
Similarly, Dr. Mary Aille Idele has been appointed Director of the Women Mobilisation Directorate, with Dr. Betta Edu named Deputy Director and Hon. Imaan Suleman appointed Secretary.
The appointments place new leadership teams in key areas of the campaign’s organisational and mobilisation efforts, particularly in coordinating activities and engaging critical constituencies ahead of the 2027 presidential poll.
According to the statement, the adjustments reflect the Council’s commitment to building a well-coordinated, inclusive and results-driven campaign structure capable of effectively mobilising Nigerians, particularly young people and women, in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid.
The Council expressed confidence that the appointees would bring their experience, commitment and organisational capabilities to bear on their respective responsibilities as preparations for the election gather momentum.
It further charged all appointees to work collaboratively with other directorates and relevant campaign structures to advance the Council’s objectives and ensure the effective implementation of its mobilisation and campaign strategies.
Forthcoming publication highlights environmental responsibility, sustainable economic growth and the relationship between people, nature and national development ahead of its public presentation in Abuja.
As Nigeria continues to advance its national development priorities under the current administration, with renewed attention to environmental sustainability, urban development, responsible natural resource management and inclusive economic growth, a new book by Abba S. Maigida, PhD, seeks to deepen public understanding of the relationship between people, nature and the environment.
Against the backdrop of government efforts to strengthen environmental governance, address the challenges of rapid urbanisation and population growth, promote climate resilience and create opportunities for sustainable economic development, the publication offers perspectives on the importance of aligning national policies, institutional responsibilities and community participation with long-term development objectives.
Titled People, Nature and Environment: Pathways to Sustainable Development, the book examines the connections between human wellbeing, environmental protection, responsible governance and economic progress. It recognises the importance of national development initiatives while highlighting the need for sustained collaboration among government institutions, professionals, academics, development partners and communities in building a more prosperous, inclusive and environmentally sustainable Nigeria.
The book will be formally presented and launched on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., at the (BATICC) International Conference Centre, Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria. The occasion is expected to attract eminent personalities, senior government officials, policymakers, academics, professionals, corporate organisations, development partners, representatives of the diplomatic and international communities, and other distinguished stakeholders.
A Timely Contribution to Sustainable Development
Across the world, sustainable development remains a major priority for governments, international organisations, businesses and communities. Climate change, environmental degradation, increasing pressure on natural resources and socioeconomic inequalities continue to influence national policies and development strategies.
For Nigeria, these concerns are particularly significant as the country pursues infrastructure expansion, economic diversification, improved living standards and the sustainable management of its environmental resources.
In People, Nature and Environment: Pathways to Sustainable Development, Maigida explores these interconnected issues, emphasising the importance of development approaches that balance economic advancement with environmental protection and social wellbeing.
The publication presents sustainable development as a shared responsibility involving individuals, communities, governments, professional institutions and international development partners.
It also draws attention to the importance of evaluating development beyond physical infrastructure and economic growth, taking into account environmental quality, institutional effectiveness, human welfare and the long-term interests of future generations.
Connecting Professional Experience with Development Practice
Drawing on his professional experience and engagement with development-related issues, Maigida examines the importance of integrating research, institutional practice, public policy and community participation into sustainable development initiatives.
The book reflects an understanding that people, nature and the environment are interdependent elements of a broader development system rather than separate areas of concern.
This perspective is particularly relevant to professionals involved in urban and regional planning, environmental management, public administration, infrastructure development, education, governance and community development.
The publication also highlights the importance of cooperation among government institutions, research organisations, professional bodies, private enterprises and development partners in addressing contemporary environmental and development challenges.
By connecting professional knowledge with practical development concerns, the author contributes to discussions on how institutions and communities can pursue economic and social progress while safeguarding environmental sustainability.
Relevance to Nigeria’s National Development Agenda
Nigeria’s development aspirations require policies and institutional arrangements that recognise the relationship between economic growth, environmental responsibility and the wellbeing of its population.
The current administration’s emphasis on economic transformation, infrastructure development and institutional reforms provides an important context for broader discussions on integrating environmental sustainability into national development planning.
The book addresses issues relevant to sustainable cities, environmental governance, climate resilience, responsible natural resource management, social inclusion and institutional accountability.
Its central themes also relate to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly the need to integrate economic, social and environmental considerations into national development strategies.
For policymakers, the publication provides perspectives on the relationship between policy formulation, implementation and sustainable outcomes. For academics and researchers, it offers opportunities for interdisciplinary discussion and further inquiry.
Development practitioners, corporate organisations and international institutions may also find its themes relevant to their work in environmental management, institutional development and community-centred initiatives.
The book encourages greater attention to the long-term consequences of development decisions and the importance of policies that respond to present needs while protecting opportunities for future generations.
Encouraging Dialogue and Collective Responsibility
Beyond its academic and professional relevance, People, Nature and Environment seeks to encourage wider public awareness of the responsibilities associated with sustainable development.
The publication reinforces the view that environmental protection and sustainable progress require more than government policies alone. Meaningful results depend on informed leadership, responsible institutions, professional commitment and active community participation.
It also provides a basis for engagement among policymakers, researchers, civil society organisations, educational institutions, development agencies and other stakeholders whose activities influence environmental and development outcomes.
Such collaboration remains essential in addressing challenges that cut across institutional, geographical and professional boundaries.
The book’s broader message is that sustainable development must move beyond policy declarations and academic discussions to practical actions that improve lives, strengthen institutions and preserve the natural environment.
Abuja to Host Public Presentation and Launch
The public presentation and launch of People, Nature and Environment: Pathways to Sustainable Development is scheduled for Thursday, October 29, 2026, at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, beginning at 11:00 a.m.
The occasion is expected to bring together distinguished personalities from government, academia, professional institutions, the corporate sector, civil society and the international development community.
The gathering will provide an opportunity to introduce the publication to a wider audience, recognise the author’s contribution to development discourse and encourage engagement with the issues examined in the book.
The anticipated participation of eminent individuals, organisations and representatives of the international community reflects the broad relevance of the subject and the importance of collaborative approaches to sustainable development.
A Publication for Present and Future Generations
At a time when nations face increasing environmental pressures and growing demands for inclusive economic development, People, Nature and Environment: Pathways to Sustainable Development offers a timely contribution to national and international discussions.
The publication invites readers to consider how responsible governance, institutional cooperation, environmental stewardship and community participation can contribute to a more sustainable future.
Through the book, Abba S. Maigida, PhD, seeks to advance understanding of the relationship between human development and environmental responsibility while encouraging greater commitment to policies and practices that promote lasting progress.
The forthcoming Abuja launch will provide a platform for professional engagement, public awareness and stakeholder dialogue on an issue of enduring national and global importance: ensuring that human progress, environmental protection and the responsible use of natural resources remain central to sustainable development.
PUBLIC PRESENTATION AND BOOK LAUNCH
Book: People, Nature and Environment: Pathways to Sustainable Development
Author: Abba S. Maigida, PhD
Date: Thursday, October 29, 2026
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Venue: International Conference Centre, Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria.
Benue Politics: Stakeholders Urged to Probe Allegations of Threats to State Security
2027: Tinubu Campaign Council Creates New Directorate, Names Aliyu, Olawande, Idele to Key Positions
Abba S. Maigida, PhD, Explores Pathways to Sustainable Development in New Book
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