The Northern Consumers Protection Association (NCPA) and the Grassroots Mobilisation Initiative, have applauded President Bola Tinubu for directing a Federal Executive Council (FEC) committee to expedite measures aimed at reducing food prices across Nigeria.
The groups pledged their support for government efforts, expressing optimism that swift action would help guarantee Nigerians access to affordable food.
The two groups, in a joint statement signed by NCPA leader Ahmed Abubakar and Grassroots Mobilisation Initiative national coordinator, Samaila Musa, described the move as a timely and necessary intervention in addressing the rising cost of living confronting Nigerians.
The groups hailed Tinubu’s directive as a commitment to alleviating the hardship faced by Nigerians, adding that ensuring the safe passage of farm produce across transport routes, as emphasized by the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, was a particularly commendable step.
According to the statement, “As a representative body of consumers in the northern region and at the grassroot, we recognize the significant burden that high food prices impose on families and individuals, particularly those in lower-income brackets.
“The rising cost of living has become a critical concern, affecting not only the purchasing power of citizens but also their overall quality of life. President Tinubu’s directive to prioritize the reduction of food prices is a step in the right direction, reflecting a commitment to alleviating the hardships faced by many Nigerians.
“The focus on ensuring the safe passage of farm produce across transport routes, as highlighted by Senator Abdullahi, is particularly commendable. By addressing the logistical challenges that contribute to inflated food prices, the committee can help streamline the supply chain, ultimately leading to lower costs for consumers.
“It is essential that this committee acts with urgency and diligence, implementing the necessary measures to facilitate the efficient movement of agricultural goods from farms to markets.
“In light of this directive, we call upon the Federal Executive Council committee to ensure swift and successful adherence to the President’s directives. It is crucial that the committee engages with all stakeholders in the agricultural sector, including producers, marketers, and transporters, to foster a collaborative environment that prioritizes the reduction of food prices.
“The cooperation of these key players will be vital in overcoming the logistical hurdles that have historically impeded the flow of agricultural products across the country.”
They urged the FEC committee to act with urgency, engage stakeholders across the agricultural value chain, and explore innovative solutions to streamline food distribution. These include investment in infrastructure, leveraging technology for supply chain management, and fostering partnerships to ease the movement of agricultural goods from farms to markets.
He added, “We can address the multifaceted challenges that contribute to high food prices and ensure that all Nigerians have access to affordable food.
“These two organizations stand ready to support these efforts, advocating for the interests of consumers and working alongside the government to promote a more equitable and sustainable food system.
“We believe that with the right measures in place, we can create an environment where food is accessible and affordable for all, thereby improving the overall standard of living in our communities.
“In conclusion, we applaud President Bola Tinubu for his proactive stance on this critical issue and urge the Federal Executive Council committee to act swiftly and effectively. Together, we can pave the way for a brighter future where every Nigerian can enjoy the fundamental right to food without the strain of exorbitant prices.”
