The claim that Northwest Nigeria is the most populous region and produces food that feeds the entire nation requires careful examination. Let’s check the assertion Made by an X-platform user ismailockler
Population Analysis:
Nigeria comprises six geopolitical zones: North Central, North East, North West, South East, South South, and South West.According to available data, the population distribution is as follows:
– North West: 24.3%
- South West: 21.3%
- North Central: 14.6%
- North East: 14.1%
- South South: 13.8%
- South East: 10.8%
This data indicates that the North West is indeed the most populous region in Nigeria, accounting for approximately 24.3% of the national population.
Agricultural Production Analysis:
Agriculture is a significant component of Nigeria’s economy, with various regions contributing to the nation’s food supply. The North West, along with other northern zones, plays a crucial role in agricultural activities.A 2019 survey revealed that agricultural participation is more prevalent in the northern regions:
North East: 83.6% of households engaged in crop farming.
- North West: High levels of participation in both crop farming and livestock rearing.
In contrast, the South West recorded the lowest percentage of households participating in agricultural activities.
While the North West significantly contributes to Nigeria’s agricultural output, it is an overstatement to claim that it “feeds the entire nation.”Agricultural production is distributed across various regions, each specializing in different crops and livestock. For instance, Nigeria’s total arable land is approximately 36.9 million hectares, with major crops including maize, cassava, guinea corn, yam beans, millet, and rice.
Conclusion:
The assertion that Northwest Nigeria is the most populous region is accurate, as it holds the largest share of the national population.
However, the claim that it produces food that feeds the entire nation is FALSE.While the North West is a vital contributor to Nigeria’s agriculture, food production is a collective effort involving all regions of the country.
