FG rolls out new strategy to stabilise food prices, boost production
The Federal Government has introduced a combination of short-medium-and long-term measures aimed at reducing food prices, increasing domestic agricultural output, and rebuilding public confidence in Nigeria’s food system. This was
The Federal Government has introduced a combination of short-medium-and long-term measures aimed at reducing food prices, increasing domestic agricultural output, and rebuilding public confidence in Nigeria’s food system.
This was the focus of discussions at a ministerial policy dialogue held during Nigeria Public Relations Week in Kaduna, themed “Nigeria’s Food Security: From Policy Paper to Public Plates; The Imperatives of Public Relations.”
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, the Executive Secretary of the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), Mohammed Ibrahim, explained that the government’s current approach prioritises correcting market imbalances responsible for rising food costs and supply shortages.
He said targeted steps such as lowering import tariffs on key agricultural inputs and commodities have already helped ease price pressures.
“Compared to last year when food prices were extremely high, the policies we introduced, especially import tariff reductions, have contributed to stabilization,” Ibrahim stated.
He added that alongside these immediate interventions, the government is working to strengthen local production by supporting farmers and agro-processors.
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“Our focus includes providing farm inputs and supporting agro-processing. We are subsidizing inputs for processors who integrate backward into farming. Strengthening both production and processing is essential for policy success,” he said.
Ibrahim also noted that ongoing fiscal and tax reforms are aimed at improving agricultural value chains, stressing that food security now extends beyond farming to encompass effective communication, coordinated policies, and public engagement.
“Food security is no longer just about production. It also involves clear communication and shaping public perception to build trust and ensure results,” he added.
On inflation, he revealed that food inflation has declined to about 14 percent, down from 25 percent during the same period last year, though challenges remain.
“Prices are gradually coming down, but high input costs are still a burden for farmers,” he said.
To tackle this, the government is promoting mechanisation, improving access to inputs, and delivring targeted support across key agricultural sectors.
“These efforts are beginning to show results, and we expect inflation to continue declining,” he noted.
A key driver of the strategy is the National Agricultural Development Fund, which is overseeing financing, implementation, and institutional support within the sector.
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Ibrahim outlined the Fund’s responsibilities, including boosting production across crops, livestock, fisheries, and agro-forestry, as well as providing affordable financing to farmers and agribusinesses. It also funds research, training, extension services, and emergency interventions during crises such as disease outbreaks or input shortages.
In addition, the Fund is working to expand financial inclusion in rural areas by linking farmers to formal banking systems and partnering with international donors to improve productivity.
Through its programmes, NADF has supported thousands of farmers nationwide. Its ginger development initiative has reached over 5,000 farmers in Kaduna, Plateau, and the Federal Capital Territory. Meanwhile, the Farm Input Support Program has benefited 50,000 smallholder farmers across all geopolitical zones, offering up to 75 percent subsidies for seeds, fertilizers, and crop protection products.
Emergency interventions have also been provided to more than 2,000 onion farmers affected by crises in several northern states.
Looking ahead to the 2026 wet season, the Fund plans to expand fertilizer support to 127,000 farmers across 25 states and the FCT under a new program.
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On financing, he said the NADF has secured billions of naira through partnerships with state governments and financial institutions.
Major investments include support for ginger production in Kaduna, a co-financing arrangement with Niger State for rice and maize farming, and funding support for fertilizer production, rice processing, and cassava value chains.
Its blended finance model has also attracted private sector participation, lowering borrowing costs and improving access to credit. One partnership has helped empower 15,000 young women in cassava farming in Oyo State.
At the state level, he said the Fund is working with several governments to develop risk-sharing frameworks to improve agricultural financing.
Ibrahim emphasised that all these efforts are geared toward achieving long-term food security and self-sufficiency.
“Our objective is to ensure Nigeria can sustainably feed its population while creating economic opportunities across the agricultural sector,” he said.
