In response to the escalating food prices and the resultant 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, spearheaded by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was to address the dual challenges of food affordability and availability in Nigeria.
According to the statement released by the minister, yesterday, it stated that during the 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.
The minister noted that the rising costs have affected staples such as yam, plantain, and potato, leading to widespread public concern.
Outlining several government interventions he 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 had continued to climb, necessitating further action including PASAP, a comprehensive strategy to stabilise food prices and increase availability over the next 180 days.
Key measures included 150-Day Duty-Free Import Window for Food Commodities: Government Importation of Wheat and Maize, where the Federal Government would import 250,000 metric tons each of wheat and maize, targeting supplies to small-scale processors and millers.
Also, the setting up of the Guaranteed Minimum Price (GMP), engaging stakeholders to mop up surplus food commodities to replenish the National Strategic Food Reserve and the Agricultural Production Ramp-Up, sustaining support for smallholder farmers, acceleration of dry season farming, and aggressive agricultural mechanisation to boost productivity and reduce costs.
Other exercises included the inauguration of Renewed Hope National Livestock Transformation Implementation, today and the enhancement of Nutrition Security, promoting fortified food production and supporting the Home Garden Initiative by the Office of the First Lady of Nigeria.
Senator Kyari further emphasised 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) would 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.
He assured 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.