FG plans to distribute 42,000 MT of grains to cushion rising food prices

The Federal Government has launched the distribution of 42,000 metric tonnes (MT) of assorted food commodities from the National Strategic Food Reserve (NSFR) to vulnerable Nigerians across the country.

The initiative, aimed at mitigating the impact of rising food prices, was announced by Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during a ceremony held at the Government House, Sokoto, Sokoto state on Sunday, April 6, 2024.

According to Idris, President Tinubu’s administration is committed to ensuring essential food items remain available and affordable for Nigerians.

The distribution includes sorghum, millet, maize, and rice, totaling 42,000 MT, as well as 60,000 MT of rice through millers.

“The government calls for continued patience and understanding from Nigerians as we push through these difficult times into a season of abundant benefits and truly renewed Hope,” Idris stated.

He highlighted the reduction in petrol importation, stabilized foreign exchange rates, and the launch of the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund (RHIDF) as positive indicators for the nation’s economy.

Speaking at the event, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, emphasized the importance of sustaining buffer stocks at both the national and state levels to complement the National Strategic Food Reserve.

He urged state governments to activate their buffer stock programs to alleviate pressure on the federal government’s food reserves during emergencies.

The distribution of food commodities to Sokoto state includes maize, sorghum, and millet, totaling 44.01 trucks or 26,406 50kg bags.

The initiative aligns with the Nigeria Food Storage Policy, which mandates the National Strategic Food Reserve to keep 5% of total annual food production, with states expected to maintain an additional 10% buffer stock.