By George George Idowu
The federal government has announced the suspension of duties, tariffs, and taxes on essential food items imported through land and sea borders for the next 150 days.
This was revealed by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, during a press briefing at the National Press Centre, Abuja, on Monday.
Kyari stated that maize, wheat, husked brown rice, and cowpeas will benefit from a 150-day Duty-Free Import Window.
According to him, this measure is part of the Presidential Accelerated Stabilization and Advancement Plan, which aims to achieve food security and economic stability in the country.
The minister emphasized the government’s efforts to tackle the food inflation crisis, which has led to soaring prices.
He assured Nigerians of the government’s commitment to ensuring food security and that no citizen goes to bed hungry.
Kyari explained: “The Federal Government has announced a 150-day Duty-Free Import Window for Food Commodities, suspending duties, tariffs, and taxes for the importation of certain food commodities (through land and sea borders).
“These commodities include maize, husked brown rice, wheat, and cowpeas.
“Under this arrangement, imported food commodities will be subjected to a Recommended Retail Price (RRP).
“The Government’s position upholds standards that will not compromise the safety of food items for consumption.
“In addition to private sector importation, the Federal Government will import 250,000MT of wheat and 250,000MT of maize. These semi-processed food commodities will be supplied to small-scale processors and millers across the country,” he added.
The minister also announced the inauguration of the Renewed Hope National Livestock Transformation Implementation Committee, which will develop and implement policies prioritizing livestock development in line with the National Livestock Transformation Plan.