Renowned economist Dr. Doyin Salami has called for a shift from traditional cooperatives to a more efficient ‘farmer aggregation’ model to boost productivity in Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
Speaking at the 12th Annual Public Lecture of the Foursquare Gospel Church in Lagos, themed “Poverty Alleviation, Economic Development and Stability of the Nigerian Economy,” Salami noted that agriculture now accounts for nearly 29% of Nigeria’s GDP but remains dominated by smallholder farmers with limited support.
“Agriculture is the largest single sector of the country, instead of creating farmer cooperatives, which farmers often cannot manage, we need farmer aggregation now. This approach provides an incentive structure to effectively organize farmers for support and improvement.”
He further explained that aggregators would serve as intermediaries providing inputs, finance, and technical assistance. “They will service the farmer, ranging from input extension service to finance. They can go to the bank and borrow and on-lend,” Salami added.
Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, also present at the event, emphasized collaboration across sectors to reduce poverty. “As leaders, whether in government, the church or the private sector, we must collaborate to break this cycle,” he said.
He highlighted state initiatives such as subsidized farm inputs, free healthcare for vulnerable citizens, and alternative transport solutions to ease living costs.
Foursquare’s General Overseer, Reverend Sam Aboyeji, stressed the role of faith and dialogue in shaping national development. “No nation can experience true stability without deliberately tackling poverty,” he said.
The event, which also marked the church’s 70th anniversary, brought together leaders from government, business, and the faith community to discuss strategies for inclusive economic growth.
