It is indeed a global embarrassment to have the picture of Nigeria in this type of Frame.
To the Leaders, it’s never enough to sympathise with the families of the deceased as that has been the usual comments that end the matter from the microphone of the Government.
Addressing the current hunger levels in the Country is indeed a pressing issue that requires immediate and effective action by way of subsidizing .
The government should conduct a thorough assessment to identify the essential food items that require subsidies, with a focus on staple foods like Rice Corn flour, Cassava flour (semolina, semovita, Cassava flour) etc.
Having identified these key food items, the government should set benchmark prices that reflect reasonable costs for both consumers and retailers. This should be based on market analysis to ensure it is achievable and fair.
Creation of a Task Force to oversee the implementation of the food subsidy program is also key towards achieving this project. This task force could include government officials, representatives from the food retail sector, agricultural experts, and community leaders to ensure a well-rounded approach. The task force would be responsible for monitoring food prices up across various markets. This would involve regular checks and a reporting system where consumers can easily report non-compliance.
Penalties should be outlined for retailers who are found to be selling above the benchmark prices. This could include fines or other legal actions to deter price inflation.
Partnership with Farmer To ensure a steady supply of these essential foods, the government should also work closely with local farmers to encourage production. This could include providing support in terms of seeds, fertilizers, and access to markets.
By taking these steps, the government can alleviate food insecurity in Nigeria while also fostering a more stable food market that benefits the Farmers, Retailers and Consumers.
Ojonuba Pedro writes from Abuja
