AN ASSESSMENT OF PUBLIC PERCEPTION OF FOOD SECURITY INITIATIVES UNDER PRESIDENT TINUBU’S ADMINISTRATION

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

Nigeria have the capacity to become a formidable economic force, yet, a significant portion of its people is plagued by food insecurity. During the past fifteen years, the prevalence of undernutrition has risen from slightly over 7% (2004-06) to about 13% of the population (2017-2019). The COVID-19 pandemic significantly worsened health and nutrition issues. Due to the prevailing high inflation, the number of people living in poverty has increased by 4 million, rising from 90 million in December 2022 to 94 million in April 2023(World Bank, 2023)

Since transitioning to an oil-driven economy in the early 1970s, Nigeria has faced alternating periods of economic growth and decline, which have hindered long-term investment in the development of its agricultural sector and the productivity of its non-oil industries (Anjonrin, 2023). Subsequent administrations have failed to utilise the excess funds from prosperous years to invest in a varied and efficient economy, resulting in the accumulation of structural issues that hinder high productivity growth (Okonofua (2023)). 

Following the outbreak of COVID-19, rising nations are facing increased difficulties in borrowing and investing in the global environment. However, Segum, (2023) posits that African governments that have access to Africa-wide markets, particularly within the African Continental Free Trade Area, might still find possibilities amidst these challenges. The recently inaugurated administration of Bola Tinubu, who assumed the presidency of Nigeria in May 2023, has implemented its initial significant reform measure: The subsidy on fuel was removed, which was both expensive and regressive. The previous administration led by Muhammadu Buhari aimed to alleviate poverty for 100 million Nigerians by the year 2030. It is now the responsibility of the new government to achieve this challenging objective. During his inaugural address on May 29, 2023, President Bola Tinubu pledged to consolidate the nation, foster inclusive possibilities, reorganize the economy, enhance security, and generate employment (Punch, 2023). 

If he achieves his goals, he will significantly enhance the food security of Nigerians, who currently endure a poverty rate of 40% (NBS, 2023). Furthermore, there exist significant spatial discrepancies between the northern and southern regions of Nigeria, characterized by frequent and intense ethnic conflicts. These disparities are also evident between rapidly developing urban areas and remote rural areas, as well as between pastoralists and farmers in the fertile Middle Belt and the North West, which is the most economically disadvantaged region in Nigeria ( Joshua et al., 2023). This Policy Brief examines the complexity of the task of attaining food security in the midst of current tumultuous circumstances. In Ghana, the prevalence of oil has been both advantageous and detrimental. This Policy Brief initially outlines the fundamental characteristics of the worldwide and domestic circumstances in which Nigeria must confront the task of attaining food security. Initially, it is important to establish a precise understanding of the concept of food security. Food security is the state in which every individual has consistent and reliable access to an adequate amount of safe and nutritious food that fulfils their dietary requirements and preferences, enabling them to lead an active and healthy life. This definition was established by the World Food Summit in 1996. Food self-sufficiency and food sovereignty, while they can enhance food security, should not be considered synonymous with it.

The new Nigerian Government, led by President Tinubu, has implemented a significant measure to steer Nigeria towards a hopeful path of recovery and facilitate the transition to a more diversified, resilient, inclusive, and prosperous nation. These factors are crucial for achieving food security in Nigeria. The PMS subsidy, which was expensive and inefficient, was withdrawn. Additionally, the foreign exchange regulation continued to undergo revision. The unfortunate news is that these are merely the beginning, although a crucial one. Given that climate change presents a significant and life-threatening risk to millions of people, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of tackling the issue of food security with great urgency. This study aims to evaluate the public perception of food security initiatives during President Tinubu's administration.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Although multiple food security programmes have been put into action, there is still a notable lack of comprehension on how the public perceives these endeavours. Food security is a crucial concern in Nigeria, affecting the health, welfare, and economic stability of its population. Despite Nigeria's abundant agricultural resources, a significant number of Nigerians still encounter difficulties in obtaining an adequate, secure, and nourishing food supply. The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has made addressing food insecurity a top priority. They have implemented several projects with the goal of enhancing food production, delivery, and affordability.

An issue of significant concern regarding the food security programme implemented by Mr. President is the insufficient knowledge and understanding of the policy among the recipients (Osubare, 2024). According to Norma (2023), the government has implemented programmes like the National Agriculture Growth Scheme-Agro-pocket to support millions of farmers. These programmes provide training on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), certified inputs such as improved seeds and organic and inorganic fertilisers, and irrigation equipment at heavily discounted prices. The aim is to improve farmers' production, increase productivity, and ultimately raise their incomes. However, the majority of farmers who stand to gain from this endeavour are unaware of these schemes, preventing them from participating and reaping the benefits.

Corruption poses an additional challenge to President Tinubu's food security agenda (Ayomade, 2024). Embezzlement is a prevalent occurrence in Nigeria. This could potentially occur if enough regulatory bodies are not established to supervise the efficient operation of the programme. Therefore, the necessity for doing this investigation arises.

Objectives of the study

The primary objective of this study is to critically assess public perception of food security initiatives under President Tinubu’s administration. Specific objectives of this study are to:

To assess the level of public awareness and understanding of the food security initiatives under the Tinubu administration

To determine how the public perceives the effectiveness of these initiatives in addressing food security

To evaluate the impact of these initiatives on the daily lives of vulnerable Nigerians

To identify challenges raised by the public regarding the food security initiatives.

1.4 Research Questions

The following research questions which are in line with the objectives of this study will be answered in this study:

What is the level of public awareness and understanding of the food security initiatives under the Tinubu administration?

How does the public perceive the effectiveness of these initiatives in addressing food security?

What is the impact of these initiatives on the daily lives of vulnerable Nigerians?

What are the challenges raised by the public regarding the food security initiatives?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

To determine the effectiveness of this study, the following research null hypotheses will be formulated to guide the study and it will be tested at 0.05% levels of significance.:

Ho: The level of public awareness and understanding of the food security initiatives under the Tinubu administration is low.

Ha: The level of public awareness and understanding of the food security initiatives under the Tinubu administration is high

1.6 Significance of the study

The assessment of public perception of food security programmes during President Tinubu's administration holds multiple layers of importance. It offers vital perspectives for policymakers, enhances academic and practical understanding, advantages the general public, and reinforces economic and social stability. Furthermore, it is in line with international sustainability objectives and enhances governance by promoting trust and interaction between the government and the population.

The findings will offer significant insights for policymakers to modify and enhance existing programmes in order to more effectively satisfy the requirements of the public. Policymakers will acquire a more profound comprehension of public attitude over ongoing food security activities. This insight can inform the improvement of current policies and the creation of novel, more efficient tactics. Furthermore, policymakers can improve the efficacy of food security programmes by analysing the strengths and shortcomings as perceived by the public and making appropriate adjustments.

Additionally, the study will contribute to increasing knowledge of the significance of food security programmes and the role of governmental policies in guaranteeing access to an adequate, secure, and nourishing food supply. Gaining insight into public perception can promote increased public engagement in food security initiatives, cultivating a feeling of ownership and accountability towards the country's food security.

In addition, enhanced food security contributes to economic stability by alleviating the financial strain on families who are facing difficulties in affording essential needs. Consequently, this can improve productivity and contribute to overall economic expansion. Addressing food insecurity will enhance the social well-being of Nigerians by mitigating malnutrition and hunger, which are intricately connected to a range of health and social challenges.

Furthermore, future scholars will utilise it as a thorough examination of the current body of literature. Consequently, other students with an interest in investigating this subject will have the opportunity to utilise this work as existing knowledge that may be thoroughly evaluated. 

1.7 Scope of the study

Broadly, this study focus is to critically assess public perception of food security initiatives under President Tinubu’s administration. Specifically, this study seeks to assess the level of public awareness and determine how the public perceives the effectiveness of these initiatives in addressing food security. 

Further, this study will focus on evaluating the impact of these initiatives on the daily lives of vulnerable Nigerians, and it also seeks to challenges raised by the public regarding the food security initiatives.

1.8 Limitations of the study

As is common in all human endeavours, the researchers faced minor limitations when conducting the study. The main limitation was the lack of extensive literature on the subject, as there is limited data available for an assessment of public perception of food security initiatives under President Tinubu’s administration. Consequently, a significant amount of time and effort was necessary to locate the appropriate materials, books, or information and to gather data. 

Additionally, this study is constrained by its small sample size and narrow geographical scope, focusing just on Nigeria. Consequently, the results of this study are not applicable for generalization, thereby leaving room for further research. 

Additionally, the researcher's limitations were primarily due to financial constraints, as they are a student and do not have a source of income to sustain themselves. It was challenging to afford transportation expenses to and from the study location due to the high cost of transportation, which is influenced by inflation in Nigeria today.

Furthermore, the researcher faced a time constraint due to the need to do this research while also fulfilling the obligations of attending lectures and other educational activities.

1.9 Definition of terms

Food security: Food security is when a person is able to obtain a sufficient amount of healthy food on a day-to-day basis.

Food scarcity: food scarcity refers to the shortage of food supplies to meet the dietary needs of a population.

Malnutrition: Malnutrition is a medical condition that occurs when a person's nutrition is either insufficient or excessive, leading to harmful effects.

Public perception: Public perception is simply the type of information obtained from a public opinion survey. That is, “publicopinion” is merely the aggregate views of a group of people (usually a randomly selected sample) who are asked directly what they think about particular issues or events.