FG Yet to Deliver Promised Grains Two Weeks After Tinubu’s Directive

Two weeks after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu instructed the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to release 42,000 metric tons of grains to alleviate the soaring cost of living and hunger, the promised distribution is yet to materialize, leaving many Nigerians in uncertainty.

President Tinubu’s directive was aimed at addressing the hunger crisis that had sparked protests in various states, particularly exacerbated by the administration’s policies of petrol subsidy removal and currency floating.

Despite assurances from the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, that the grains would be distributed free to the needy, checks by Daily Trust revealed that the grains had not reached many states, including Kano, Kwara, Taraba, Gombe, Ogun, Niger, Oyo, Cross River, Benue, Bauchi, Yobe, Kogi, and Nasarawa.

NEMA officials across these states confirmed the non-receipt of grains from the federal government, emphasizing their readiness to commence distribution once the grains were handed over.

The delay in distribution prompted inquiries, with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security attributing it to data authentication processes. An anonymous official acknowledged the need for careful planning to prevent mistakes witnessed during previous palliative distributions.

However, credible sources expressed doubts about the government’s claims, suggesting that there might not be enough grain reserves in the country. With 33 silos and a total capacity of 1.3 million metric tons for the Strategic Grain Reserve (SGR) system, concerns arise over the 19 silos concessioned to the private sector.

Despite these challenges, Agriculture Minister Abubakar Kyari assured during a recent briefing that Nigeria’s grain reserves were not empty. The ministry’s silence on the details of the national strategic grains reserve silos raised questions, citing national security concerns.

As the situation unfolds, the United States has advised the federal government to invest in agriculture to tackle the country’s food security challenges. The US Charge d’Affaires, David Greene, emphasized the need to harness Nigeria’s abundant arable lands, fertile soil, and favorable weather for improved food production and reduced post-harvest losses.