By Ohuakanwa Chibuzo
In a recent sectoral debate organized by the House of Representatives in Abuja, Agriculture and Food Security Minister Abubakar Kyari revealed alarming statistics regarding Nigeria’s food crisis. Kyari emphasized that smuggling, flooding, COVID-19, insecurity, and the Central Bank of Nigeria’s cash swap policy from the previous year are the main causes behind the crisis.
The minister highlighted the urgent need for 72,000 tractors to support mechanized farming and address the food shortage. Currently, only about 5,000 tractors are operational across the country. To tackle this deficiency, Abubakar Kyari announced a five-year agreement with a manufacturer to supply 2,000 tractors annually.
In response to the crisis, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) intercepted 141 trucks loaded with smuggled food items attempting to leave the country. Customs Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi disclosed that President Tinubu directed the seized trucks to be sold to locals at moderate prices in nearby markets.
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President Tinubu’s directive reflects a shift in government policy towards addressing food insecurity. Efforts are underway to release grains from the National Strategic Grain Reserve and stabilize food prices in collaboration with the World Food Programme.
House Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu underscored the multifaceted nature of the crisis, emphasizing the importance of addressing both supply and demand factors. With food inflation reaching alarming levels and millions facing malnutrition risks, Kalu stressed the urgency of diversifying agricultural production and improving access to inputs.
The ongoing conflicts in Nigeria’s North East, North Central, and North West regions have exacerbated food production challenges, with rural farmers bearing the brunt of insecurity. Despite agriculture’s significant contribution to the GDP and employment, the sector faces unprecedented challenges that require immediate attention.
As Nigeria grapples with a looming food crisis, stakeholders are urged to prioritize long-term solutions and collaborative efforts to ensure food security for all Nigerians.