Tinubu urged to reverse controversial policy on food importation

ABUJA — Jet FarmsNG, a prominent agricultural firm, has urged President Bola Tinubu to reconsider the recent policy suspending duties, tariffs, and taxes on essential food items for 150 days. In an exclusive interview with Vanguard, Jerry Tobi, Chief Farmer of Africa and CEO of Jet FarmsNG, criticized the policy’s potential negative impact on local farmers who have invested significantly despite challenges with high input costs.

Tobi emphasized that while the government’s intentions to curb food inflation are commendable, the sudden move risks undermining local agricultural efforts already underway for the upcoming harvest season. He highlighted concerns about the policy’s implications for Nigeria’s agricultural self-sufficiency, stressing the need for a more calculated approach to support local farmers and enhance food security.

“As the Chief Farmer of Africa, I am deeply concerned about the recent announcement by the Federal Government,” Tobi stated. “While the intention behind this policy to alleviate food inflation is commendable, the approach appears to be poorly calculated and raises several critical questions that demand urgent answers.”

Tobi further questioned the necessity of importing food items despite Nigeria’s vast agricultural potential, urging strategic investments in local production capabilities instead. He called for transparency in government actions regarding food reserves and strategic plans for ensuring stable harvest seasons.

Highlighting the potential repercussions on local farmers, Tobi cautioned against increasing dependence on imports, which could weaken the local economy and harm small and medium-scale agricultural enterprises. He proposed alternative measures, including strategic investments and international funding to boost local production and ensure sustainable food security.

In conclusion, Tobi emphasized the importance of government policies that support long-term agricultural growth without jeopardizing the sector’s resilience. He urged a reconsideration of the duty-free period and a more consultative approach to safeguard Nigeria’s agricultural future.