The Nigerian Senate has called on the Federal Government to urgently roll out targeted interventions to support local farmers struggling with falling farm-gate prices and rising production costs, warning that current conditions threaten rural livelihoods and long-term food security.

The call followed a motion raised during plenary by Senator Danjuma Goje (Gombe Central), who drew attention to the unintended effects of recent food price control measures, including large-scale import waivers and approvals. 

While acknowledging the government’s efforts to ease pressure on consumers, Goje cautioned that the policies have placed significant strain on domestic producers.

According to the Senate, prices for locally produced crops have continued to decline, while the cost of critical inputs, such as fertilisers, pesticides, and insecticides, remains high. 

This imbalance, lawmakers noted, has disrupted agricultural markets, increased post-harvest losses and reduced farmers’ ability to earn sustainable incomes.

The situation is particularly concerning for smallholder farmers and young people entering agriculture, many of whom lack access to affordable inputs, storage facilities and market protection. 

Lawmakers warned that without swift action, the sector could experience reduced productivity, job losses, and a decline in interest among young people in farming.

In response, the Senate resolved to urge the Federal Government to introduce a special emergency intervention package for affected farmers, expand subsidies on essential inputs, and encourage state governments to scale up investment in local agricultural initiatives. 

It also called for coordinated efforts to address post-harvest losses and strengthen domestic value chains.

The lawmakers stressed that protecting farmers is not only a matter of rural welfare but a strategic necessity for national food security, economic stability and the future of climate-smart and sustainable agriculture in Nigeria.

Source: Lagos Television
Image Credit: The Sun News