Nigerians have voiced their concerns over the Federal Government’s distribution of palliatives, arguing that this measure is not a viable solution to the country's food shortage. Citizens are urging President Bola Tinubu to declare an emergency in food security, introduce a comprehensive national food policy, and address the insecurity caused by herders, which has driven farmers, especially in southern Nigeria, to abandon their farms.
Political activist Blessing Adima criticized the government's approach, describing it as a "misplaced priority." He argued that importing rice, which could be locally produced in states like Benue, Southern Kaduna, Zamfara, Ebonyi, and Taraba, demonstrates a lack of understanding and care for food production. Adima emphasized that the funds spent on rice imports could be better utilized to combat insecurity and herder-related issues.
Development consultant Furoebi Akene echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of enabling farmers to return to their fields. Akene raised concerns about the integrity of those entrusted with distributing the palliatives, fearing corruption could undermine the efforts.
Presley Idi, Secretary of the Ndokwa National Youth Movement, emphasized the need for a secure environment for farmers to alleviate food shortages. He argued that palliatives offer only temporary relief and are susceptible to corruption, preventing them from reaching those in genuine need.
Legal practitioner Iniruo Wills from Bayelsa State criticized the government's lack of strategic governance, arguing that palliatives are not a sustainable solution. Ex-spokesman of the Ijaw Youth Council, Ebilade Ekerefe, called for a holistic national policy to address food security, pointing out that corruption often prevents palliatives from reaching intended beneficiaries.
Educationist Edna Rukevwe from Delta State highlighted the lack of preparation for economic reactions to subsidy removal, advocating for measures to ensure farmers' security and support through fertilizers and tax-free importation of farm tools. She urged the government to focus on real governance instead of propaganda.
Chief Israel Amanze, representing the South East in the All Farmers Association of Nigeria, argued that palliatives are only a temporary measure. He called for addressing the root causes of food insecurity, including the insecurity that keeps farmers from their lands and the high cost of farm inputs.
Saviour Akpan, Executive Director of COMPPART Foundation for Justice and Peacebuilding, suggested subsidizing organic seedlings and fertilizers to promote self-reliance in food production. He also recommended amending the Land Use Act of 1978 to make land more accessible for agricultural purposes.
Ogunbiyi Olajunwo, a rights lawyer based in Uyo, criticized the government's priorities, suggesting that opening borders and reducing tariffs on essential goods could alleviate food shortages. He emphasized the need for a clear plan to tackle insecurity and purposeful investment in the food production chain.
Mrs. Mary Afan, an executive of the Small-Scale Women Farmers Organization in Nigeria, stressed the importance of supporting smallholder farmers who produce a significant portion of the food found in markets. She pointed out that political farmers often benefit from government support while real farmers are neglected.
Other citizens, including Jamila Benzies-Buyengum and Adamu Musa, called for encouraging people to return to farming and providing modern farming tools and training to youth. They emphasized that involving grassroots dwellers in food production and curbing insecurity would enhance food availability and reduce hunger.
In summary, Nigerians are urging the government to address the root causes of food insecurity, including farmer displacement due to insecurity and the high cost of farm inputs. They advocate for a comprehensive approach that includes supporting local farmers, improving security, and implementing sustainable agricultural policies.
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