Reps Move to Probe Falling Food Prices, Warn of Threat to Farmers and Food Security

Nigeria’s House of Representatives has initiated steps to investigate the continued drop in farm produce prices nationwide, expressing concern over its effects on farmers’ incomes, food availability, and overall nutrition.

During plenary on Wednesday, April 22, lawmakers urged the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to work closely with relevant bodies to urgently develop and implement measures that would address the situation. Suggested interventions include structured produce off-take systems and price support strategies aimed at cushioning farmers from losses.

The House also emphasized the need to improve agricultural infrastructure by expanding storage facilities, boosting processing capacity, and enhancing market access. Proposals included strengthening strategic grain reserves and developing agro-processing zones to reduce post-harvest losses and stabilize prices.

The resolution followed a motion presented by Bamidele Salam, who described agriculture as a vital sector for employment, rural development, and national economic growth.

While presenting the motion, Salam noted a significant and sustained decline in the prices of key crops such as cassava, rice, and yam. He warned that many farmers are incurring heavy losses after investing in inputs like seeds, fertilizers, chemicals, transportation, and labor—often financed through loans or cooperative arrangements.

He attributed the situation to challenges such as the lack of organized off-taking systems, poor storage infrastructure, weak agro-processing capacity, and limited market access, all of which contribute to high post-harvest losses and unstable pricing.

Salam cautioned that if left unaddressed, the trend could discourage farmers, reduce agricultural productivity, and weaken investment in the sector. This, he said, may eventually lead to food shortages, increased reliance on imports, and higher food prices.

Lawmakers further warned that disruptions in food production and supply chains could limit access to affordable and nutritious meals, worsening food insecurity and malnutrition—especially among vulnerable groups. They stressed the importance of government-backed price stabilization policies and buffer stock programs to protect farmers and ensure long-term agricultural sustainability.