The Nigerian Government has unveiled a series of emergency measures aimed at tackling soaring food prices within the next 180 days.
The announcement, made by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, includes temporary duty-free import windows and significant agricultural initiatives.
At a press conference in Abuja, Kyari detailed the government’s approach, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. “We are implementing a 150-day duty-free import window for essential food commodities such as maize, rice, wheat, and cowpeas. This will help mitigate the high costs currently burdening Nigerians,” he stated. These imports will be subjected to a Recommended Retail Price (RRP) to ensure affordability.
In addition to the duty-free period, the government plans to directly import 250,000 metric tons of wheat and maize. Kyari explained, “These imports are targeted to support small-scale processors and millers, which is crucial for stabilizing our food supply chain.”
The minister also announced efforts to establish a Guaranteed Minimum Price (GMP) for assorted food commodities. This initiative aims to stabilize prices and replenish the National Strategic Food Reserve. “Our goal is to protect both farmers and consumers from volatile market fluctuations,” Kyari said.
Further measures include increased support for smallholder farmers, enhancement of agricultural mechanization, and accelerated development of irrigable lands in collaboration with local authorities and the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation. “We are committed to making farming less labor-intensive and more productive,” Kyari noted.
Addressing food shortages, the government plans to boost greenhouse cultivation of horticultural crops like tomatoes and peppers, particularly engaging youth and women in these efforts. Kyari highlighted the importance of this initiative: “Greenhouse farming will increase production volumes and help stabilize market prices.”
Additionally, the government will implement the Renewed Hope National Livestock Transformation Plan. A new committee will be inaugurated to develop and align livestock policies. Kyari announced, “This is a critical step towards modernizing our livestock sector and ensuring sustainable development.”
Nutrition security is also a priority, with plans to promote the production of fortified food commodities and support the Home Garden Initiative led by the First Lady. “Enhancing nutrition through fortified foods is essential for the well-being of all Nigerians,” Kyari asserted.
The government will finalize implementation frameworks over the next 14 days in collaboration with the Presidential Food Systems Coordinating Unit (PFSCU) and the Economic Management Team (EMT). A dashboard managed by the PFSCU will provide the President with direct oversight, ensuring transparency and accountability. “We are committed to providing real-time updates to the President and the public to ensure these measures are effectively executed,” Kyari concluded.
