Nigeria’s Senate has approved a bill aimed at curbing large-scale exports of unprocessed corn, seeking to combat widespread hunger in the West African nation.
The legislation, which would require presidential approval to become law, would make it illegal to export unprocessed corn in quantities exceeding one metric ton. Violators would face fines equal to the value of the corn or a one-year prison sentence.
The move comes as Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, grapples with its worst cost-of-living crisis in decades. Economic challenges have been exacerbated by austerity reforms implemented under President Bola Tinubu, including the removal of a long-standing petrol subsidy and a devaluation of the naira currency, both of which have fueled inflation.
Nigeria’s weakened currency has prompted informal exports of staple grains like corn, rice, and sorghum to neighbouring countries, where traders take advantage of favorable exchange rates with the West African CFA franc.
Corn, a key staple in Nigerian households and industries, is also used for animal feed, beverages, and processed flour.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) projects Nigeria’s corn exports will rise to 75,000 metric tons in 2024/25, up from 50,000 metric tons this year. Meanwhile, domestic consumption stands at about 12 million metric tons annually, with Nigeria importing roughly 100,000 metric tons to meet demand.
The new bill is part of broader efforts to bolster domestic food security as over 30 million Nigerians are projected to face food insecurity next year, a one-third increase compared to 2023, according to a joint report by the Nigerian government and the United Nations. By restricting the export of unprocessed corn, lawmakers hope to alleviate pressure on domestic supplies and address the growing hunger crisis.
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