Tinubu Finally Takes Critical Decisions, Announces Release of 42,000 Metric Tons Of Grains, Others to Combat Food Inflation

In a decisive move to mitigate the soaring food prices in Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu has orchestrated the release of approximately 42,000 metric tons of essential grains from the nation’s strategic reserves.

The action, announced by Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, aims to make staples like maize, millet, and garri more accessible and affordable to the masses.

The announcement came after a crucial meeting of the Presidential Committee on Emergency Food Intervention held in Abuja. The committee’s deliberations have resulted in not only the government’s significant release from the strategic reserves but also a collaborative effort with the private sector. The Rice Millers Association of Nigeria has pledged to contribute around 60,000 metric tons of rice to the market, bolstering the government’s efforts to ensure food security.

Idris highlighted the critical nature of these measures, pointing out the government’s readiness to consider grain imports as a temporary solution if necessary. This proactive stance underscores the administration’s commitment to addressing the immediate challenges of food availability amidst economic reforms.

He also said there is an option of importing these grains “if it becomes absolutely necessary, as an interim measure”.

His comment comes on the same day that the Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas pleaded with Nigerians over the cost of living, saying the lawmakers feel their pains.