As food insecurity and hunger intensify in Nigeria, the recently announced food import waiver from President Bola Tinubu could not have come at a more critical time. This initiative, now in the hands of the Minister of Finance and Economy, Wale Edun, aims to reduce import costs for critical food staples temporarily. Announced in August as a response to severe economic challenges and widespread protests (#EndBadGovernance and #EndHardship), the policy promises zero import duty and VAT on specific staples through January 2025 to address escalating hunger levels. Yet, despite its urgency, two months have passed with the policy still pending activation due to bureaucratic delays, leaving Nigerians waiting for relief.
The urgency behind this policy is underscored by Nigeria’s deteriorating food security status. According to the Global Hunger Index (GHI) 2023, Nigeria ranks 103rd out of 121 countries, signifying an “alarming” hunger level. Moreover, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reported that over 133 million Nigerians live in multidimensional poverty, with food poverty affecting a significant percentage of households. The escalating cost of living, driven by fuel subsidy removal and currency depreciation, has pushed the prices of essential goods beyond reach for many Nigerians. For example, the cost of rice, a staple food, has increased over 80% since last year, and basic cooking items like vegetable oil have seen similar hikes.
Agricultural productivity has declined significantly, exacerbated by security issues in the northern region—Nigeria’s primary food basket. Terrorism, insurgency, and clashes with armed herdsmen have destabilized communities and caused many to abandon their farms. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) estimates that over 3 million Nigerians in rural communities have been displaced, reducing overall food output and limiting local food availability. Combined with the economic strain from recent policy changes, these disruptions are severely straining the country’s food supply.
CSR REPORTERS notes that climate change is another contributing factor. Annual flooding in food-producing areas has destroyed farmland, displaced thousands, and put further pressure on food prices. Last year alone, floods affected 33 of Nigeria’s 36 states, displacing over 1.4 million people and damaging thousands of hectares of farmland. The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has warned of similar flooding this year, threatening to deepen food shortages as affected areas struggle to recover.
According to the Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research (NISER), the cumulative losses from climate-induced disruptions in agriculture are costing the nation billions of dollars each year. This is a stark reminder of the urgent need for relief measures that include not only short-term imports but also long-term resilience and sustainable agriculture investments.
One question is expedient at this juncture: When will Nigeria as a nation go pass bureaucratic delays and policy Implementation challenges? Despite the president’s timely approval, the waiver has yet to be operationalized, reportedly due to administrative hurdles within the Ministry of Finance. Although the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) initially bore the brunt of public criticism for failing to enforce the policy, recent information reveals that red tape within the Ministry is to blame. The Ministry has reportedly implemented “impossible” procedural requirements for importers, with a stated aim of protecting local farmers and ensuring only credible importers participate. While safeguarding local agricultural interests is essential, this objective should not derail a policy intended to provide immediate relief from soaring food costs.
The food import waiver, if implemented effectively, could lower the cost of staples for Nigerian households by around 20-30%, easing inflationary pressures. However, the Nigerian Customs Service’s concerns over losing N188bn in revenue underscore the policy’s fiscal challenges. This highlights a larger tension within government priorities: balancing revenue collection with the immediate humanitarian need for food security.
The Tinubu administration’s waiver policy reflects an opportunity for Nigeria to address not only short-term hunger but also long-term sustainability goals. In line with Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger), the waiver presents a chance for the government to coordinate with stakeholders on solutions that make essential food items affordable while enhancing resilience in food production.
To ensure sustainable outcomes, the government and private sector, through CSR, could collaborate on initiatives that strengthen local agriculture. Investments in mechanized farming, climate-smart agriculture, and infrastructure can create an environment that prioritizes food security. Companies can also contribute by supporting food banks, providing direct assistance to vulnerable communities, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices to reduce dependence on imports in the long term.
Organizations focused on CSR and sustainability can work with the government to create local food systems that bridge the current gap, while boosting job creation and fostering resilience against future food crises. A multi-pronged approach that addresses hunger relief, local farmer protection, and sustainable agriculture can establish a framework that benefits both the economy and society.
All these are much ado about something: Implement the Waiver Now!
As the year-end approaches, it is imperative for the Ministry of Finance to prioritize activating this waiver without delay. A swift implementation will ensure that affordable food reaches families in need, particularly during the festive season, a time when food insecurity will be felt most acutely.
As Nigeria continues to navigate economic pressures, climate change, and food insecurity, every level of government and the private sector must contribute meaningfully. This moment presents an opportunity for the Tinubu administration to show leadership by not only activating the waiver but also laying the groundwork for a sustainable food future for Nigeria.
The need is urgent, and excuses are no longer acceptable. We call on the government to act swiftly, transparently, and in the best interest of Nigerian citizens, ensuring that food security is a priority today and a sustainable reality tomorrow.