Food importation will erode gains made in rice, maize and wheat production in Nigeria

The National President of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Arc. Kabir Ibrahim, has expressed concerns over the upcoming duty-free importation of food commodities, such as maize, rice, and wheat, stating that it could lead to the erosion of gains made in local production. Ibrahim emphasized the need for trade liberalization and imports to address food security but suggested limiting the importation period and quarantine limits. He also underscored the importance of government investment in subsidies for inputs to have a sustainable food system and emphasized the significant investments made in rice production and processing in Nigeria.

The National President of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Arc. Kabir Ibrahim has stated that the duty-free importation for food items will lead to the erosion of gains made in local production of maize, rice and wheat. He disclosed this in a chat with Nairametrics on Tuesday where he stated that the situation with food security today requires some form of trade liberalisation and imports but should not exceed the stipulated 150 days period. However, he noted that rice importation would be very painful to Nigerians who have invested heavily in rice production and processing. Furthermore, he called on governments to invest through the provision of subsidies on inputs such as machines, fertilizers and chemicals in order to have a sustainable food system in the country. He stated, “The gains made in internal sufficiency will certainly be lost in some of the three competencies mentioned viz; rice, maize and wheat.” “Nigeria and Nigerians have made sizable investments in ...