Federal Government Initiates Emergency Food Intervention to Alleviate Soaring Prices

The Federal Government has pledged to release food supplies from the National Food Reserves as part of its strategy to combat rising food prices, following a meeting of the Special Presidential Committee on Emergency Food Intervention convened by President Bola Tinubu. The committee, led by Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, aims to address the food shortage affecting many Nigerians.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stated that the government is taking proactive steps to alleviate the food crisis by tapping into existing food reserves and engaging with major millers and commodity traders to ensure a steady supply of food items. He emphasized President Tinubu’s directive to intervene decisively in response to the challenges faced by Nigerians in accessing affordable food.

Idris highlighted the government’s efforts to counteract individuals exploiting the situation for personal gain, noting that there is still an adequate supply of food in the country. He cited the depreciation of the national currency as a factor contributing to the increase in food prices, which has prompted the government to take swift action to address the situation.

The minister revealed that key stakeholders, including the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Minister of Finance and the Coordinating Minister for the Economy, were involved in the discussions, which also touched on national security implications. He assured that the government will continue to engage in dialogue and implement measures to alleviate the hardship faced by Nigerians.

Despite acknowledging the ongoing challenges, Idris expressed optimism that the government’s interventions will lead to tangible relief for Nigerians. He urged patience and understanding, promising that definitive actions will be announced once the discussions are concluded.

Vanguard News