The Nigerian government has banned foreigners from approaching its local farmers for their produce. The decision was made on Wednesday at the Federal Executive Meeting headed by the country’s Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo.
In a statement released by the government, it said only licensed local buying agents are allowed to buy the produce from the farmers.
“The Federal Executive Council (FEC) today approved a Ban on foreigners and their representatives purchasing agricultural produce at the farm gate.
“Henceforth, only licensed and duly registered LOCAL buying agents can now buy produce directly from farmers in Nigeria,” the statement released on microblogging platform, Twitter read.
The statement also revealed that the Attorney General will draft a law and send to the National Assembly for implementation.
“As part of the FEC approval, the Attorney-General will draft a law that will be sent to NASS to support the implementation of the new Policy.
“We will also use Commodity Associations, to which the farmers belong, to ensure effective implementation.”
The Nigerian government’s decision has been met with mixed reactions as some Nigerians commented that it limits the freedom of choice of the farmers.
Others stated that foreign owners who buy directly from these farmers at low prices go on to sell at exorbitant prices and also cause food inflation.
It’s unclear what the framework of the policy is with the government expected to reveal the workings of the new policy in the days to come.