The Nigerian government has outlined strategies to stabilize food prices and boost local production, with the Executive Secretary of the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), Mohammed Ibrahim, reporting that food inflation has dropped to 14% as government interventions take effect. Ibrahim emphasized the importance of public communication in achieving food security during the Ministerial Policy Dialogue held at the Nigeria Public Relations Week in Kaduna.
FG Targets Food Price Stability and Production Boost
Ibrahim explained that the government's current strategy centers on market correction to address food inflation and supply challenges. Representing the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, Ibrahim stated that the government has outlined a mix of short, medium, and long-term agricultural policies. The interventions include the reduction of import tariffs on key agricultural inputs and commodities, which has provided immediate relief by easing pressure on prices.
“Food prices this time last year were astronomically high, but some of the direct policies we introduced, especially around import tariff reductions, have helped stabilize the situation,” Ibrahim said. He further noted that the government is simultaneously pursuing policies to support farmers and agro-processors.
Food Security Beyond Production
The NADF boss stressed that food security today goes beyond production alone and includes communication, policy alignment, and public engagement. “Clear communication, shaping narratives, and influencing policy are equally important in building trust and ensuring impact,” he added. Ibrahim disclosed that food inflation has dropped to about 14% compared to 25% recorded in the same period last year.
“Food prices are beginning to abate, although challenges remain, particularly around the high cost of inputs. Farmers are still feeling the pressure,” he said. The government is addressing these challenges by implementing measures to liberalize mechanization, improve access to inputs, and deliver targeted support to farmers across key value chains.
Positive Trends in Food Prices
Ibrahim added that these interventions are beginning to yield results, and inflation is expected to continue on a downward trajectory. Recall that Nigeria's agricultural sector has seen food prices drop by up to 53%, signaling early recovery. Minister Kyari links food security directly to national stability and economic resilience. Persistent challenges remain, including high input costs and limited access to financing for farmers.
Meanwhile, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) revealed that prices of key food items, including garri, beans, and rice, have dropped. Data shows that residents across different states experienced wide variations in food price changes, with Bauchi, Taraba, and Adamawa recording some of the lowest prices for key staples.
