The Delta State Steering Committee on Food System Transformation Pathways has outlined plans to boost food security, improve agricultural productivity, and promote sustainable farming practices across the state.
Chairman of the committee, Mr. Sonny Ekedayen, disclosed this on Thursday in Asaba while speaking with journalists during an interactive session. He said the committee was set up in response to growing concerns over food shortages, low agricultural output, insecurity, and rising food prices in Delta State.
According to Ekedayen, agriculture remains the backbone of the food system, and the government is determined to redirect attention and resources to the sector to ensure the state can sustainably feed its growing population.
He explained that the initiative places strong emphasis on ethical and sustainable farming, stressing that land and other agricultural resources must be carefully managed to meet present needs without compromising future generations. He noted that land is a limited resource facing increasing pressure from population growth, urbanisation, industrial development, and climate change.
Ekedayen said the committee is focused on coordinating all stakeholders in the agricultural value chain, including farmers, community leaders, regulators, and policymakers. Its role includes raising awareness on responsible farming practices and ensuring that the use of fertilizers, pesticides, machinery, irrigation systems, and other inputs is carried out in an environmentally friendly and ethical manner.
He highlighted the importance of homestead and small-scale farming, noting that when widely adopted, such practices can significantly increase local food supply, improve household nutrition, and help reduce the cost of food. He added that food security is not solely dependent on large-scale farming, as even small plots of land can be highly productive when managed efficiently.
The committee chairman also stressed that large land holdings do not automatically result in higher yields, explaining that with the right technology, mechanisation, and improved farming methods, smaller land areas can produce multiple harvests within a year. He said efficient land use is key to maximising output and achieving sustainable food production.
Ekedayen revealed that the committee is made up of professionals and leaders drawn from the agriculture, environment, and information sectors. This, he said, will promote collaboration, innovation, and fresh thinking while supporting the Ministry of Agriculture to review policies, improve farmer support, and prioritise resources for both crop and livestock production.
He further emphasised the need for public education and youth engagement in agriculture, noting that many young people are disengaged due to limited knowledge or motivation. According to him, increased awareness of modern and sustainable farming practices can inspire greater youth participation and strengthen the state’s food system.
Ekedayen called on all residents of Delta State to take farming seriously, use land and agricultural resources responsibly, and adopt sustainable practices. He said collective effort, ethical land use, and informed decision-making are critical to ensuring long-term food security and driving overall economic growth in the state.
“By producing food responsibly today, we can guarantee that our land continues to sustain us tomorrow,” he said.
