In response to escalating food prices and the economic strain on Nigerians, Senator Abubakar Kyari, the Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, announced the implementation of the Presidential Accelerated Stabilization and Advancement Plan (PASAP).
This initiative, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, aims to address the dual challenges of food affordability and availability in Nigeria.
During a press briefing at the National Press Centre in Abuja, Senator Kyari highlighted the severe impact of food inflation, which currently stands at 40.66%, according to the National Bureau of Statistics. He noted that rising costs have affected staples such as yam, plantain, and potato, causing widespread public concern.
Outlining several government interventions, Kyari mentioned the release of 42,000 metric tons of assorted food commodities from the National Strategic Food Reserve and the purchase of 88,500 metric tons of milled rice. Despite these efforts, food prices have continued to climb, necessitating further action through PASAP, a comprehensive strategy to stabilize food prices and increase availability over the next 180 days.
Key measures include:
1. 150-Day Duty-Free Import Window for Food Commodities: The Federal Government will import 250,000 metric tons each of wheat and maize, targeting supplies to small-scale processors and millers.
2. Guaranteed Minimum Price (GMP): Engaging stakeholders to mop up surplus food commodities to replenish the National Strategic Food Reserve.
3. Agricultural Production Ramp-Up: Sustaining support for smallholder farmers, accelerating dry season farming, and aggressive agricultural mechanization to boost productivity and reduce costs.
4. Renewed Hope National Livestock Transformation Implementation: Inaugurated today to enhance livestock production.
5. Nutrition Security: Promoting fortified food production and supporting the Home Garden Initiative by the Office of the First Lady of Nigeria.
Senator Kyari emphasized the necessity of collaboration with various stakeholders and government agencies to ensure the successful implementation of these measures. The Presidential Food Systems Coordinating Unit (PFSCU) will manage a dashboard for President Tinubu to ensure transparency and accountability.
The Minister concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to ensuring food security and economic stability in Nigeria, assuring that the measures would be implemented swiftly to provide immediate relief while continuing to develop long-term strategies for sustainable food systems.
“Let me reiterate Mr. President’s unwavering commitment to attaining food security and ensuring that no Nigerian goes to bed hungry,” Kyari stated.
