By Atoyebi Nike
Prof. Sami Ayodele, a botany expert at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), has called on the Federal Government to invest in mushroom farming. He said the sector could earn the country over ₦1 trillion each year.
Speaking to journalists in Lagos on Sunday, Ayodele described mushroom cultivation as a goldmine. He said it remains underdeveloped despite its health and economic value.
“Nigeria has many edible and medicinal mushroom species,” he said. “But the sector lacks investment and awareness.”
According to him, mushroom farming can raise Nigeria’s GDP and boost export income. “It has the potential to contribute up to 25% of the GDP if properly developed,” he said.
He listed major challenges as poor technical knowledge, weak infrastructure, lack of credit, and low public awareness.
To address these, Ayodele urged the government to invest in training, offer affordable loans, and run awareness campaigns.
“We need training centres, credit facilities, and regular guidance for farmers,” he said. “People need to see mushrooms as a viable business.”
He also called on private investors to support the sector. “With the right policies, mushroom farming can create jobs and support economic growth,” he added.
Ayodele stressed that mushroom farming can play a key role in Nigeria’s push for economic diversification.
