Farmers Predict Worsening Food Crisis, Blame Fuel Subsidy Removal, Insecurity

Farmers predict worsening food criaFrmers across Nigeria are sounding the alarm over an impending food crisis, attributing the dire situation to the recent removal of fuel subsidies and ongoing security challenges. These issues have significantly increased transportation costs and disrupted farming activities, exacerbating food inflation.

The All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) has urged consumers to brace for more price hikes, predicting that the food crisis may persist until at least August. AFAN President Kabir Ibrahim highlighted that seasonal variations also contribute to the current price surges, particularly for produce like tomatoes, peppers, and yams.

“The costs are influenced by multiple factors including insecurity, high exchange rates, and the removal of fuel subsidies,” Ibrahim said. “While food is available, it is not affordable, thus jeopardizing food security.”

Ibrahim cautioned the government against responding to the crisis by opening borders for food imports, warning that this could undermine progress in the agricultural sector.

Dr. Yunusa Halidu, AFAN’s National Secretary, emphasized that low productivity due to expensive farming inputs and security issues is at the heart of the problem. He called for increased government support and collaboration with farmers to address these challenges.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government has unveiled a revised national food safety policy, promising abundance despite the rising prices. They have expressed concern over the inflation, which has led to protests in states like Niger and Kano.

In a related development, Speaker of the House of Representatives Abbas Tajudeen, speaking through Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, called for the establishment of more specialized agricultural institutions. This initiative aims to accelerate the nation’s quest for food security through modern and mechanized farming techniques.

Additionally, Ogun State’s Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security is actively working to mitigate food insecurity. Spokesman Gbenga Morounfolu announced recent support for 8,800 smallholder farmers, providing them with agricultural inputs and infrastructure.