The House of Representatives, on Wednesday, called on the Federal Government to swiftly implement the Exports (Prohibition) Act, 2004, as part of efforts to combat the pressing issues of food smuggling and insecurity in Nigeria.
During the plenary session, lawmakers emphasized the need for immediate action to curtail food smuggling, which has significantly contributed to the country’s food insecurity crisis.
The House noted that smuggling is undermining local agricultural production, leading to high food prices, shortages, and worsening levels of hunger and malnutrition, particularly in vulnerable populations.
The motion titled “Need to Curb the Export Prohibition Act to Tackle Insecurity in Nigeria” was sponsored by Muktar Shagaya, representing Ilorin West/Asa Federal Constituency, Kwara State.
Shagaya drew attention to reports from international organizations such as the World Bank and the International Rescue Committee, which indicate that over 31.8 million Nigerians—about 16 per cent of the population—are currently facing severe food insecurity and malnutrition, with women and children being the most affected.
He stressed that the Export Prohibition Act passed in 2004, was intended to curb the mass exportation of essential food items, including rice, corn, yam, garri, cassava, and beans, which were being smuggled out of the country in large quantities, depriving Nigerians of access to these critical staples.
However, the law has not been properly enforced over the years, resulting in a surge in food shortages, inflation, and increased smuggling activities.
The House, therefore, urged the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to provide additional incentives and support to farmers to increase agricultural productivity and food supply. Lawmakers emphasized the importance of taking concrete steps to address food insecurity, which has also been linked to rising levels of insecurity across the country.
In response to the motion, the House mandated the committees on Agricultural Production and Services, Legislative Compliance, Customs, Commerce, and Industry to ensure strict adherence to the Export Prohibition Act and report back within four weeks with recommendations for further legislative action.
Shagaya concluded by reiterating that swift action is essential to avert a deepening food crisis and to secure the nation’s agricultural output. He also emphasized the need to curb illegal export practices and protect local farmers from the economic losses resulting from food smuggling.
