The Nigerian government is contemplating an Executive Order to approve the importation of paddy rice for millers in an effort to curb escalating food inflation nationwide.
Additionally, there is consideration for importing maize and rice seeds to bolster farmers’ production of these essential crops.
These measures are outlined in the draft Accelerated Stabilisation and Advancement Plan (ASAP) submitted by Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, to President Tinubu.
The document proposes several executive orders aimed at addressing the country’s pressing economic issues, including inflation reduction, employment generation, non-oil export promotion, prudent financial management, and tax information consolidation.
However, this proposed plan contradicts earlier statements by President Tinubu, who had announced to State Chairpersons of the All Progressive Congress (APC) that his administration would not continue food imports, aiming instead to transform current challenges into future opportunities.
The Minister of Information reiterated this position in an address to state Governors.
Moreover, the President had previously directed the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) to enforce the Export Prohibition Act, halting the export of certain food items such as rice, maize, beans, and millet, to ensure a stable domestic supply.
