The House of Representatives has urged the federal government to urgently enforce the Exports (Prohibition) Act, 2004, as a strategy to curb food smuggling and address food insecurity in Nigeria.
The House also called on the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to offer more incentives to farmers to boost agricultural productivity.
This resolution followed the adoption of a motion presented by Muktar Shagaya during Wednesday’s plenary session.
Presenting his motion, Shagaya cited Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution, which emphasises that the security and welfare of the people are the primary responsibilities of the government.
He expressed concern over Nigeria’s ongoing food crisis, highlighting high levels of food insecurity, rising food inflation, and widespread shortages that have left millions of Nigerians struggling to access nutritious food.
Shagaya referenced alarming reports from the World Bank and the International Rescue Committee (IRC), which estimate that over 31.8 million Nigerians—about 16% of the population—are currently facing severe food insecurity, with malnutrition particularly impacting women and children.
He also pointed out that rampant food smuggling is exacerbating this crisis by undermining domestic agricultural output and threatening the livelihoods of local farmers.
He explained that the Export (Prohibition) Act, 2004 was initially enacted to prevent the export of essential foodstuffs during a time when many Nigerians could not afford basic staples such as rice, corn, yam, garri, cassava, and beans, as these items were being covertly transported to foreign markets.
He said today, the country faces similar challenges, with food shortages, high prices, and widespread hunger.
The lawmaker stressed the importance of addressing the current food crisis by enforcing this legislation, as it would help prevent food exports, enhance domestic food availability, and alleviate the cost of living for Nigerians.
The House subsequently resolved to urge the Federal Government to immediately enforce the Exports (Prohibition) Act, 2004 to curb food smuggling and enhance food security across Nigeria.
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