The Nigerian government has banned foreigners from buying agricultural products directly from farmers.
The ban was announced on Wednesday, 9th March, 2022 by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Niyi Adebayo, while briefing State House correspondents on the outcome of the Council meeting, presided over by Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, in Abuja, stating that only licensed and duly registered local buying agents can now buy products directly from farmers in the country.
“The Federal Executive Council (FEC) today approved a Ban on foreigners and their representatives purchasing agricultural produce at the farm gate”.
“Henceforth, only licensed and duly registered local buying agents can now buy products directly from farmers in Nigeria,” the Minister stated.
The Minister said foreigners have been going to the farm gates to buy products from the farmers at low prices, thus discouraging the farmers from continuing with their trade.
“As part of the FEC approval, the Attorney-General will draft a law that will be sent to NASS to support the implementation of the new Policy”.
“We will also use Commodity Associations, to which the farmers belong, to ensure effective implementation,” he said.
The National President, All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Ibrahim Kabir, has applauded the decision , stating that it was as a result of the low prices foreign middlemen offer at the farm gate to purchase farm produce.
He said: “I strongly support the government for taking that action,”.
“I know in the Kano areas, some Lebanese go to our farms to buy things and some Chinese also go to buy from the farm.
“So, once you buy from the farm gate the farmers sell at a low bottom price but if you come to the market and sell directly that means you will get your small profits, ” Mr Kabir said.
The ban comes as a welcome development to youth in Nigeria as many of them are involved in agriculture; and as a result of the ban, young farmers and older ones too, would be more encouraged to delve further into agriculture as the role of middlemen is cut out, enabling them make the profit they deserve.
Story: Ene Ken-Yawe
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