BY, SPRINGNEWSNG

Abuja, Nigeria – March 4, 2025 – A coalition of Nigerian farmers and agribusiness stakeholders is urging the Federal Government to stop the importation of subsidized food items, warning that it is crippling the local agricultural industry.

The Nigerian Agribusiness Alliance (NAA), during a press conference in Abuja, expressed concerns that excessive food imports are undermining local production and threatening national food security.

Cheap Food Imports Hurting Local Farmers

Industry leaders argue that the influx of subsidized rice, wheat, poultry, and other food products is making it impossible for Nigerian farmers to compete.

“These imports are sold at artificially low prices, pushing local farmers out of business and discouraging investment in agriculture,” said Alhaji Ibrahim Dikko, President of the NAA.

While the Federal Government claims that subsidized food imports help stabilize prices and address shortages, the NAA warns that this approach weakens Nigeria’s long-term agricultural sustainability.

Call for Government Support and Policy Shift

Instead of relying on imports, the NAA is urging the government to increase investment in local farmers by providing access to credit, improving infrastructure, and implementing policies that encourage domestic food production.

“Rather than spending billions on food imports, the government should prioritize local production to create jobs, boost rural economies, and enhance food security,” Dikko added.

Billions Spent on Food Imports Despite Local Potential

Data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reveals that Nigeria spends billions of dollars annually on food imports, despite having the capacity to produce enough food for its growing population.

The All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) and the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN) have joined the NAA in calling for immediate policy changes.

“We have the resources and manpower to feed this country, but we need the right policies and government support,” said Dr. Femi Oke, Chairman of AFAN.

FG Responds to Concerns

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture has acknowledged the concerns raised and assured stakeholders that efforts are underway to promote local food production.

“We are committed to reducing reliance on imports and supporting our farmers. This remains a top priority for the government,” said an anonymous ministry official.

The Future of Nigeria’s Agribusiness Sector

With increasing pressure from industry stakeholders, the government faces a critical decision: continue subsidizing food imports or implement strategic policies to strengthen local agriculture.

For Nigeria to achieve food self-sufficiency and economic growth, experts argue that urgent action is needed to protect local farmers and ensure a sustainable agribusiness sector.

Stay updated with SpringsNewsNG for more developments on this issue.