Radio TNT 102.5 FM

FEDERAL Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has begun the distribution of 40,000 metric tons of grains to Nigerians to cushion the effect of high commodities’price during the festive period.

President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday directed Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Dr Mohammad Abubakar to release 40,000 metric tons of grains to Nigerians from the Strategic Grains Reserve (SGR).

Abubakar kicked off the Emergency Distribution of Assorted Food Commodities to Displaced/Vulnerable Nigerians and Women Group at Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camp at Karmajiji, Airport Road, Abuja yesterday.

He said President Buhari also approved funds for the restocking of silos across the country.

The minister  said the distribution would continue in other states, adding that the grains would also serve as palliatives for Easter, Ramadan and Sallah celebrations.

He noted that incessant attacks have displaced farming communities in some states, disrupted their source of livelihood and rendered them homeless.

The minister said many of those affected, some of who are taking shelter in schools, mosques and churches, were need of food assistance to ameliorate their suffering.

He said: “We feel there is need to reach out. This is the reason for having grain reserves. When there is a need to release the grains, we release them.

“We are doing that just as we did during COVID-19 when Mr President directed the release of 70,000 metric tons of food.

“As we speak, the President has approved additional funding for restocking our silos. We are restocking as we are releasing.

“Also, the high prices of maize in the open market has affected the cost of production of poultry feeds and consequently, the availability of the products, thereby threatening the poultry industry which has been a major employer of labour for decades.

“Furthermore, with the rising prices of food items across the country, which has been attributed to insecurity, high fuel prices, the purchasing power of public servants has been eroded making food accessibility difficult and challenging.

“Strengthening food systems and chains is a shared responsibility. Governments, industry and consumers all have a role and must work together to ensure “farm to the table”.

District Head of Karmajiji Yunusa Abdullahi said the grains would cushion the effect of the high cost of food items in the market.

Abdullahi hailed President Buhari for the gesture towards the IDPs.