Prince Samuel Joseph Samuel, Chairman of Origin Automobile Works, has called for a radical rethink of Nigeria’s food security strategy, urging that ministers, commissioners, and senior officials should own or partner in farming ventures as a condition for leadership.

Speaking at a media briefing in Lagos to mark Origin Automobile Works’ 25th anniversary, Samuel highlighted the persistent disconnect between agricultural policy and on-the-ground realities. He stressed that policymakers with personal stakes in farming would better understand the sector and naturally deploy influence to empower farmers.

“Until you own something, you will not truly relate to it. Even modest engagement, like a backyard farm, transforms how leaders perceive agriculture,” Samuel said.

Samuel also identified structural gaps in the agricultural ecosystem, particularly the absence of a functional equipment leasing culture. He criticized past interventions that focused on distributing machinery without addressing training, maintenance, and logistics, noting that inefficiencies have often led to losses rather than productivity gains.

“You provide a tractor, but you don’t train the farmer or provide proper maintenance. And if farms are dispersed, transport costs make equipment hiring unfeasible,” he explained.

Despite these challenges, Samuel expressed confidence that Nigeria could achieve significant income gains in agriculture with productivity growth and pragmatic government support. He noted that global competitors have embraced technology-driven efficiency, and Nigeria must reclaim its agricultural edge.

Samuel highlighted the importance of data-driven farming for sustainability and traceability, noting the country’s large, youthful population as a strategic advantage. He also shared updates on Origin’s Origin Eagle program, which mentors and trains young engineers to support the national economy.

“Our goal is to duplicate knowledge so participants remain valuable contributors even if they leave the program,” he said.

Samuel emphasized long-term investment in agricultural innovation, arguing that Nigeria can become a global leader in sustainable food production if productivity and technology are central to food growth strategies. Origin Automobile Works is actively supporting this vision through equipment stocking and collaboration with federal and state governments to strengthen supply chains, identify high-value clusters, and support startups.

“Agriculture is a relay race, not a short-term business. Strong private enterprises are essential for continuity and sustainable development,” Samuel concluded.