Niger State Clarifies Food Purchase Ban, Trade Within Nigeria Can Continue

News in Brief: - Governor Bago of Niger State clarified recent food purchase ban, stressing they only apply to bulk exports to neighboring countries, not interstate trade within Nigeria. - This policy aims to protect local markets, farmers, and food security by preventing exploitation and unchecked food exportation. Niger State Governor Umar Bago has clarified the recent measures regarding food purchases, addressing concerns about a complete ban on food sales to other Nigerian states. Bago emphasised that the state only restricted the bulk purchase of food items from local markets for export to neighboring countries, not interstate trade within Nigeria. This clarification comes after reports misconstrued the policy as a full-fledged ban. The governor explained the rationale behind the decision, highlighting issues like exploitation of farmers by middlemen and smugglers who divert produce to international markets. He mentioned the need to protect local industries and ensure fair prices for farmers. Furthermore, Bago further addressed concerns about the impact on interstate trade, assuring that local sales within Nigeria remain unaffected. He stressed that the policy aims to curb unchecked food exportation, which was negatively impacting local businesses and food security in the state. Additionally, the governor called for collaborative efforts at the national level to address challenges in the agricultural sector and promote sustainable practices. He reiterated Niger State's commitment to supporting local farmers and ensuring food security within the country. This clarification by Governor Bago sheds light on the state's policy and its focus on protecting local markets, farmers, and food security within its borders.