How Round-Tripping, Connivance Stall FG’s Wheat Programme
The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security launched the 2023/2024 dry season wheat farming under the National Agricultural Growth Scheme and Agro Pocket (NAGS-AP) initiative, aiming for an annual yield of 1.2 million metric tonnes of wheat. The program, funded by a $134 million loan from the African Development Bank (AfDB), intends to provide 50% input subsidies to 150,000–250,000 farmers to cultivate 200,000–250,000 hectares. However, issues such as round-tripping and poor farmer data verification have emerged, raising concerns about systemic corruption. In response, the Minister of Agriculture, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, plans to implement stringent measures and enhance oversight to ensure transparent distribution and genuine farmer participation. The initiative also aims to support other key staples like rice, maize, and cassava, with the ultimate goal of reducing food production costs and inflation. Source: DailytTrust
Our Review
The launch of the 2023–2024 dry season wheat farming initiative by Nigeria’s Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security is a significant step towards boosting local wheat production. However, addressing issues like round-tripping and data verification is crucial for its success. Strong oversight and collaboration with various stakeholders will be essential.
