Government Initiatives to Stabilize Food Prices and Boost Agricultural Production
The Nigerian government has attributed the recent decline in food prices to a combination of targeted market interventions and sustained investment in agricultural production, processing, and post-harvest systems. This was announced by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, during the opening of the 47th National Council on Agriculture and Food Security in Kaduna.
The council serves as Nigeria’s highest policy decision-making platform for the agriculture sector. It brought together federal and state officials, private sector representatives, and development partners to review progress and align strategies for achieving national food security.
Kyari emphasized that the ongoing reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration are aimed at achieving food sovereignty. The goal is to ensure that Nigeria produces what it consumes while guaranteeing affordability and access for all households.
“As we continue along this path, we are already beginning to witness a decline in food prices across several commodities, a reflection of ongoing targeted market interventions. While we are not yet where we want to be, this positive trend confirms that we are moving in the right direction,” Kyari said.
Strengthening Agricultural Schemes and Reserves
One of the key initiatives highlighted by Kyari is the strengthening of the National Agricultural Growth Scheme-Agro-Pocket (NAGS-AP). This program, supported by the African Development Bank and state governments, aims to expand access to quality agro-inputs for farmers. This effort has already contributed to increased wheat production in both irrigated and newly introduced rainfed farming zones in states like Plateau, Taraba, and Cross River.
Additionally, operations at national strategic grain reserves in several states, including Zamfara, Katsina, Nasarawa, Adamawa, Niger, Osun, Edo, and Kwara, are being scaled up to stabilize supplies and cushion temporary market shortages.
“To strengthen national food security and stabilise prices, we are enhancing efficiency across national silo operations to ensure timely interventions,” Kyari explained.
Post-Harvest Systems and Financial Support
A significant post-harvest initiative, the Nigeria Postharvest Systems Transformation Programme (NiPHaST), was unveiled to tackle annual post-harvest losses valued at over $10 billion. This program focuses on improving storage, aggregation, and cold chain infrastructure.
Kyari also announced that the Bank of Agriculture has been approved for N1.5 trillion recapitalisation and an additional N250 billion financing window for smallholder farmers. This financial support is expected to boost agricultural productivity and sustainability.
In partnership with Heifer Nigeria, a national agricultural mechanisation programme has been launched to support youth- and women-led mechanisation service centres across all six geopolitical zones. “Mechanisation will become a national service that modernises production, raises yields, and creates sustainable rural employment,” Kyari noted.
Climate-Smart Agriculture and Key Projects
Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Dr Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, emphasized the importance of adopting climate-smart agriculture to achieve long-term productivity. He highlighted investments in drought-tolerant crop varieties, integrated pest management, and the Nigerian Farmers’ Soil Health Scheme, which tailors fertiliser use to specific soil conditions.
Abdullahi also pointed to flagship initiatives such as the 500,000-hectare Dry Season Farming Scheme, renewable energy-powered water projects for irrigation, and household food production through the Every Home a Garden initiative championed by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
Strategic Position for Regional Leadership
The ministers noted that Nigeria holds the largest agricultural production potential in West Africa and is strategically positioned to become a leading food supplier to the region. Their broader goals include reducing import dependence, strengthening market confidence, and reviving agribusiness.
“Nigeria has a unique opportunity to drive food security not just nationally, but across West Africa,” Abdullahi stated.
Key Focus Areas for Future Growth
The government’s focus remains on ensuring that Nigeria can meet its own food needs while contributing to regional stability. By investing in agricultural infrastructure, supporting smallholder farmers, and promoting sustainable practices, the country is taking significant steps toward achieving food sovereignty.
With continued efforts in these areas, Nigeria aims to transform its agricultural sector into a robust and self-sufficient industry that benefits both local communities and the wider region.