Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, has called for a comprehensive review of federal agricultural policies, arguing that current measures—including food importation plans—are undermining local farmers and threatening the sustainability of Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
The governor’s appeal follows a three-day visit to farming communities in Duguri and Alkaleri local government areas, where he expressed deep concern over the alarming disconnect between recorded bumper harvests and the severe economic hardship facing farmers.
Governor Mohammed stated that while farmers in the state had invested heavily and achieved significant production this season, they are now trapped by poor commodity pricing and weak market structures, leaving many unable to recoup their costs.
“We have a situation where food is abundant in our markets, but the purchasing power of our people is low. Our farmers, who have laboured and invested in seeds, fertilizer, and labour, are struggling to break even,” the governor lamented.
He revealed that the state government’s usual produce buy-back initiative could not be implemented this year due to existing stockpiles, leading to an oversupply that further depressed prices.
While acknowledging the federal government’s efforts to alleviate hardship through various subsidies, Governor Mohammed insisted that such interventions require careful re-evaluation.
“Certain federal policies, especially those around food importation, have inadvertently reduced the value of our locally produced goods. We must look beyond subsidies and review these policies to ensure they protect, not punish, our local farmers and ensure long-term agricultural sustainability,” he urged.
The governor assured residents that his administration is actively developing measures to support farmers through improved access to quality inputs, the strengthening of agricultural cooperatives, and the development of more resilient value chains.
He reaffirmed his commitment to equitable and service-driven leadership, stressing that governance must prioritise the people’s welfare above all other considerations.
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