This was contained in a statement signed by the Director, Information and Public Relations of the finance ministry, Mohammed Manga.
According to him, the initiative itself was announced by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, which is aimed at boosting food availability, reducing prices, and easing the financial burden on Nigerian citizens.
Manga said Mr. Edun revealed the plan following a closed-door meeting with the Nigeria Customs Service Board in Abuja, where key stakeholders discussed strategies to address the nation’s food supply crisis. “The Minister emphasised that this temporary measure is critical in combating the ongoing surge in food costs, a major driver of inflation nationwide.
“We have deliberated on how to collaborate effectively to make food more affordable and accessible in the short term,” Mr. Edun stated, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
While the zero-duty proposal offers immediate relief, the Minister assured that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is focused on long-term solutions. Central to these plans is the effort to enhance domestic food production through the provision of essential farming inputs such as fertilizers and seeds, particularly for smallholder farmers. These initiatives are expected to significantly bolster local agricultural output, ensuring sustained food availability in the future.
The Minister also commended the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for its commitment to transparency, integrity, and merit in its operations. He praised the Comptroller General of Customs, Mr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and his team for their diligent efforts in safeguarding the nation’s economic interests while maintaining the efficient functioning of customs processes.
In addition to the proposed zero-duty on food imports, the Nigeria Customs Service Board continues to hold regular meetings to review the agency’s financial performance and operational activities, ensuring alignment with the Federal Government’s economic goals.
Mr. Edun reaffirmed the government’s determination to tackle both the short-term and long-term challenges to food security, working closely with the NCS and other relevant agencies to implement policies that will positively impact millions of Nigerians.
By taking these decisive steps, many believe that the Tinubu administration is showcasing its dedication to addressing the country’s most pressing concerns, from inflation to food scarcity. With the introduction of a temporary zero-duty on essential food imports, alongside ongoing efforts to strengthen local food production, the government is not only aiming to reduce inflation but also laying the foundation for a more sustainable agricultural sector.
