FG Contemplates Establishment Of Commodity Board To Address Food Security Challenges

FG Contemplates Establishment Of Commodity Board To Address Food Security Challenge

The Federal Government is considering the creation of a National Commodity Board as a potential solution to the increasing food inflation gripping the nation….READ ALSO

This announcement was made by Vice President Kashim Shettima during a high-level strategic meeting on climate change, food systems, and resource mobilization held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Speaking on the theme “Climate Resilience and Food Security: Nigeria’s Vision for the Future,” Shettima underscored Nigeria’s commitment to mitigating the effects of climate change and ensuring food security for its citizens. He emphasized that food security was a top priority area declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu under his Renewed Hope Agenda.

Highlighting ongoing policy reforms, Shettima mentioned plans for revitalizing food supply through interventions such as fertilizer and grain distribution, fostering collaboration between the Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry of Water Resources for efficient farmland irrigation, and addressing price volatility through the establishment of a National Commodity Board.

In addition to immediate strategies, the government is focused on medium and long-term plans, including the restoration of degraded lands and the activation of land banks to increase arable land for farming.

Shettima reassured the public of the government’s commitment to protecting farmers and their farms, deploying security forces to ensure their safety. He also highlighted collaborations with mechanization companies to clear forests for farming and the Central Bank’s role in funding the agricultural value chain.

Efforts to boost employment within the agriculture value chain, in line with UN-Agenda 2030 and AU Agenda 2063, were also emphasized, with a goal of creating between 5 to 10 million jobs for youth.

The high-level engagement, attended by key stakeholders including development partners, private investors, and diplomatic representatives, aims to mobilize resources for smallholder farmers to address food shortages in Nigeria.

During the event, AU Chairman of Food System, Dr. Ibrahim Maiyaki, emphasized the importance of regional integration, boosting productivity, and economic growth through appropriate policies and governance objectives.

Overall, the meeting sought to galvanize efforts to transform Africa’s food systems and tackle the continent’s food security challenges in the coming years.