In response to the ongoing food shortages and the commencement of the rainy season, the Nigerian Army has deployed troops across several northern states to safeguard farmers.
This strategic move aims to ensure a successful planting season and address the country’s rising food insecurity.
According to a statement by Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, the deployment is concentrated in the Northwest and North Central regions.
“This initiative has enabled many farmers to access their farmlands safely, paving the way for a hitch-free planting season and a potential bumper harvest,” Buba stated.
The deployment comes at a critical time as Nigeria grapples with food inflation, which, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), stands at over 40 percent.
The country’s overall inflation rate hit a peak of 34.19 percent in June 2024, before slightly easing to 33.40 percent in July.
In an effort to combat the escalating food prices and ensure food security, the Federal Government has implemented several measures. These include the suspension of duties, tariffs, and taxes on the importation of key food items such as maize, husked brown rice, wheat, and cowpeas for a period of 150 days.
Additionally, the government has approved the procurement of 2,000 tractors and 1,200 trailers to bolster agricultural productivity.
These efforts underscore the government’s commitment to tackling the food crisis, with the Nigerian Army playing a crucial role in securing farmlands and supporting agricultural activities across the country.
As the rainy season progresses, the success of these initiatives will be vital in mitigating the impact of food shortages on Nigeria’s population.