CROP FARMING: THE GREEN GOLD EVERY YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR SHOULD EXPLORE

 

Temitope Adebayo

Across Nigeria’s vast farmlands, a quiet revolution is sprouting. It’s not driven by tractors alone but by vision — a vision to turn the country’s fertile soil into green gold. Crop farming, once viewed as a rural struggle, is now emerging as one of the most profitable and sustainable ventures for Nigerians seeking financial independence.

As the nation grapples with rising food prices and unemployment, thousands of people — from graduates to retirees — are venturing into farming. And with improved seeds, better technology, and a ready market, many are already reaping bountiful rewards.

The New Wealth in the Soil

The days when farming was seen as “the poor man’s job” are fading fast. Today, young entrepreneurs are cultivating crops with smartphones in hand and tractors in the field. They monitor rainfall through mobile apps, use hybrid seeds for higher yields, and sell their produce through online platforms.

According to the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, crop farming contributes over 22 percent of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employs more than one-third of the population. Analysts say the sector could become Nigeria’s biggest non-oil wealth generator if more people invest in it.

Agricultural economist Dr. Olufemi Adebayo describes crop farming as “the most stable business in a volatile economy.”

“No matter the economic crisis, people must eat,” he says. “Nigeria’s population ensures a permanent market for food crops. The real opportunity lies in producing enough — and doing it right.”

How Profitable Is Crop Farming?

Profit margins vary with crop type, scale, and location, but the potential is impressive.

• Pepper farming: A one-hectare farm can earn between ₦800,000 and ₦1.2 million profit per season.
• Rice farming: Yields of 4 to 6 tonnes per hectare can generate up to ₦1.5 million profit.
• Cassava: One hectare produces about 20 tonnes, earning roughly ₦700,000 to ₦1 million.
• Vegetables (ugu, tomatoes, okra, cucumber): These short-cycle crops can bring ₦300,000–₦500,000 in three months, depending on market demand.

Beyond fresh produce, adding value — such as making garri from cassava or pepper paste from fresh pepper — can double or triple income.

“Processing is the real money in farming,” says Tunde Salami, a retired banker turned cassava farmer in Ogun State. “I started with three hectares, and today, my garri and fufu production fetch me more than my pension.”

What You Need to Start

Every successful farm starts with good planning. Here’s what to consider before planting your first seed:

Land:
You can start small — even with a backyard plot — and expand as you grow. For commercial farming, one hectare (about 2.5 acres) is ideal. Land leasing in rural areas ranges from ₦100,000 to ₦500,000 yearly per hectare.

Capital:
Startup cost depends on the crop.

• Vegetable garden: ₦50,000–₦150,000
• Pepper/cassava (1 hectare): ₦500,000–₦1.2 million
• Mechanized rice/maize: ₦1.5 million–₦3 million

Expenses include land clearing, seeds, fertilizer, labour, and irrigation.

Water Source:
Rain-fed farming works during the wet season, but irrigation (boreholes, wells, or drip systems) allows all-year cultivation.

Inputs:
Use certified high-yield seeds, apply organic or inorganic fertilizers appropriately, and control pests early.

Labour:
You can combine hired labour with mechanization. For small plots, family members can assist; for larger farms, hire workers or tractor services.

Market Access:
Plan your market before you plant. Sell directly to food processors, local markets, hotels, or wholesalers. Some farmers even export dried produce for better profits.

Step-by-Step Guide to Successful Crop Farming

Step 1: Conduct a Feasibility Study
Research soil type, climate, and demand in your target area. For example, tomatoes do well in northern states, while peppers and leafy vegetables thrive in the South-West.

Step 2: Choose the Right Crop
Start with what sells easily — maize, pepper, cassava, rice, or vegetables. Avoid crops that need expensive inputs or difficult storage if you’re new.

Step 3: Prepare the Land
Clear, plough, and ridge the soil properly. Good land preparation reduces weed pressure and increases yield.

Step 4: Plant at the Right Time
Timing is everything. Plant early in the rainy season for rain-fed crops. With irrigation, you can plant any time of year.

Step 5: Apply Fertilizer and Manage Pests
Use organic manure or NPK fertilizer at the right growth stages. Monitor for pests like armyworms and aphids, and control them early.

Step 6: Weed and Maintain
Regular weeding is crucial. Neglected farms yield poorly.

Step 7: Harvest and Store Properly
Harvest at maturity. Clean and grade produce for higher prices. If possible, store some harvest for off-season sales when prices peak.

Step 8: Process and Package
Add value through processing — like turning cassava into garri or flour, or drying pepper for longer shelf life. Well-packaged produce sells faster and at better rates.

Real People, Real Success

At the edge of Lagos, in Agege, 27-year-old Ayomide Ojo started a small vegetable farm during the COVID lockdown.

According to him, “I used just ₦80,000 to plant ugu and pepper,” she says. “Now I supply restaurants and food vendors. Farming changed my story.”

In Kwara State, Bamidele Adisa, a youth corps member, invested his NYSC savings into maize cultivation.

“It wasn’t easy at first,” he says, “but I sold my first harvest for ₦420,000 profit. Now, I’m expanding to two hectares.”

Their stories reflect a broader movement — young Nigerians returning to the land, armed with knowledge and technology.

Challenges to Note

Crop farming is rewarding but not without obstacles.

• Climate Change: Irregular rainfall and floods threaten yields. Drip irrigation and drought-resistant seeds can help.
• Financing: Access to loans is still limited, though programs like NIRSAL Microfinance Bank’s AGSMEIS and the Bank of Agriculture offer support.
• Storage and Logistics: Poor infrastructure causes post-harvest losses; small silos or solar dryers can help.
• Pests and Diseases: Regular monitoring and integrated pest management are essential.

Experts believe Nigeria’s food future depends on more people embracing modern agriculture. With digital platforms, better financing, and youth participation, the nation’s soil could yield more than crops — it could yield jobs, stability, and wealth.

Agric consultant Mrs. Modupe Onifade concludes:“The future millionaire may not come from the oil rig or the tech hub — but from a well-managed farm. Farming isn’t just food; it’s fortune waiting to grow.”

From pepper to rice, cassava to maize, crop farming offers endless possibilities for those willing to dig in. With a modest capital, proper guidance, and consistency, the soil can indeed become your most loyal business partner.

In today’s Nigeria, where every seed planted could mean a future secured, crop farming isn’t just cultivation — it’s cultivation of wealth.

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