By Eshiorameh Sebastian
President Bola Tinubu has issued a directive to a federal executive council committee to take further action in lowering the cost of food across Nigeria.
The Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, announced the presidential order on Wednesday in Abuja.
Speaking at a workshop for journalists, Senator Abdullahi explained that the plan involves ensuring the safe passage of farm produce and goods on the country’s roads. He stated that high transport costs are a major reason why food remains expensive for ordinary Nigerians.
“The President has given a matching order with a federal executive council committee already handling it, on how we are going to promote safe passage of agricultural foods and commodities across our various routes in the country,” the minister said.
He further clarified the issue, adding, “We are aware, and I’m sure as media, you are also aware, there are routes through which commodities are taken before they are delivered. If you know the amount of money that is being spent, you can now understand why those commodities have to be expensive at the point of delivery.”
According to the minister, this effort is a key part of President Tinubu’s larger goal of achieving food sovereignty for Nigeria. This vision includes not just producing enough food, but also making sure it is available, affordable, accessible, and nutritious for everyone on a sustainable basis.
In addition to improving transport security, Senator Abdullahi mentioned other upcoming programmes, such as the Farmer Soil Health Scheme and reforms to the agricultural cooperative system. He revealed that the president has a “tremendous interest” in using cooperatives to improve the economy and livelihoods.
The minister even encouraged the press corps to consider forming their own cooperative, highlighting its democratic and productive principles. The announcement signals the government’s continued focus on tackling the cost-of-living crisis through measures aimed at the agricultural supply chain.
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