Governor Umar Bago of Niger State has addressed misconceptions surrounding the state’s policy on the mass purchase of food items from Niger to other states in Nigeria.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, Bago clarified that the ban only applies to the bulk purchase of food from local markets for export to neighboring countries.

While the governor recently implemented restrictions on bulk food purchases from local markets within the state, he emphasized that food items purchased in Niger State markets are still allowed to be transported to other states in Nigeria.

The objective of the decision is to regulate the sales process and prevent exploitation by smugglers, rather than restricting the movement of food within the country.

Governor Bago explained, “We have markets in the local government headquarters, we have local markets in the bushes, now these aggregators or what do you call them – saboteurs and even smugglers go to these villages… Imagine arresting two hundred trucks of paddy crossing the Benin Republic from Niger State, you can imagine what it does to the market.”

He highlighted the challenges faced by local farmers, such as exploitation by middlemen and smugglers diverting agricultural produce to international markets. The governor stressed the importance of protecting local industries and ensuring fair prices for farmers.

The ban aims to control sales levels, discourage excessive cash offers that distort market prices, and curb unchecked food exportation that harms the local economy.

Governor Bago acknowledged the positive impact of the measures on reducing food prices and addressing food inflation in the state. He also mentioned the African Free Trade Agreement, emphasizing the need to strike a balance between trade opportunities and safeguarding food security within the country.

Reiterating the state’s commitment to supporting local farmers and ensuring food security, Bago called for collaborative efforts to tackle challenges in the agricultural sector and promote sustainable development.