The House of Representatives has called on the federal government to urgently enforce the Exports (Prohibition) Act of 2004 to combat food smuggling and tackle the rising food insecurity in Nigeria.
Additionally, the House has requested that the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security provide more incentives to farmers to enhance agricultural production and productivity.
Committees on Agricultural Production and Services, Legislative Compliance, Customs, and Commerce and Industry have been tasked with ensuring compliance with this mandate and must report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
These resolutions were made after adopting a motion titled “Need to Curb Export Prohibition Act to Curb Insecurity in Nigeria,” sponsored by Hon. Muktar Shagaya.
The House emphasized that the Constitution of Nigeria (1999, as amended) clearly states that the government’s primary responsibility is to ensure the security and welfare of its people.
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It expressed concern over the current high levels of food insecurity, food inflation, and shortages affecting Nigeria. Millions of citizens are struggling to access enough nutritious food, resulting in significant hardship, hunger, and suffering.
Reports from the World Bank and the International Rescue Committee (IRC) have indicated that more than 31.8 million Nigerians, approximately 16% of the population, are facing severe food insecurity and malnutrition, particularly among women and children.
The House also noted that food smuggling is a significant factor contributing to food insecurity, as large quantities of food products are illegally exported, harming agricultural output and threatening farmers’ livelihoods.
It acknowledged that the Exports (Prohibition) Act was established during a time when many Nigerians could not afford basic necessities such as rice, corn, yam, and beans, as these goods were often covertly sent to foreign markets.
The House is worried that the lack of enforcement of this legislation over the years has resulted in severe food shortages, high prices, increased food insecurity, and loss of revenue for both farmers and the federal government.
To address the ongoing food crisis, the House insists on the need to enforce the Exports (Prohibition) Act of 2004. This will help prevent food exports, ensure availability, and reduce the cost of living for Nigerians.
