Enugu: The Agricultural Transformation Agenda Support Programme Phase-One (ATASP-1) has announced that the Federal Government intends to address the issue of excess food in circulation by mopping it up. This initiative, funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB), focuses on enhancing agricultural productivity and value-chain development nationwide.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Romanus Egba, Zonal Programme Coordinator for ATASP-1 in the Adani-Omor Zone, reassured that there is no need for concern regarding potential post-harvest losses. He explained that the Federal Government maintains strategic food reserves and is actively purchasing excess produce from farmers to store and preserve it for future scarcity.
Dr. Egba attributed the recent decline in food prices to several factors. Following the 2023 food crisis, there was a significant increase in food production in 2024, resulting in a higher market supply this year. Additionally, the government’s decision to open borders, allowing imported food to compete with local produce, further contributed to the price drop. This situation has adversely impacted many farmers who now struggle to recover production costs.
Regarding agricultural security in Enugu State, Dr. Egba highlighted the efforts of the state government in addressing these challenges. He cited the recent rehabilitation of the Ada Rice Irrigation System in Adani, which was hindered by security issues. The deployment of Navy personnel to key areas has enabled farmers to return to their fields, while local vigilante groups collaborate with the military to enhance security.
Dr. Egba concluded by acknowledging the success of ATASP-1 projects, crediting the effective collaboration with security operatives, particularly the local vigilante groups.