News
Government Rejects Food Imports, Supports Crackdown on Hoarders
By Milcah Tanimu
The Federal Government has dismissed the option of importing food as part of its strategy to alleviate the high costs of food items and economic challenges gripping the nation. Instead, it has initiated measures to clamp down on traders hoarding essential grains.
This decision emerged from an emergency meeting held at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja, between President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and state governors. The meeting also witnessed the formation of a committee comprising the National Security Adviser, Director-General of the Department of State Services, and Inspector-General of Police to tackle hoarding activities.
In response to the government’s stance, the All Farmers Association of Nigeria and the organized private sector expressed support for the decision, advocating for actions against hoarders. The Nigeria Customs Service has pledged to curb smuggling activities contributing to the scarcity of food items in the country.
The escalation in food prices has been alarming, with reports indicating a 50% surge in staple commodities such as rice, beans, oils, plantain, grains, fish, poultry, and meat. This has triggered nationwide protests against the prevailing harsh economic conditions.
Dr. Mohammad Abubakar, a former Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development, highlighted factors contributing to the food crisis, including insecurity, flooding, and inadequate mechanization.
Addressing reporters after the meeting, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, emphasized the adverse impact of food imports on the nation’s economy. He underscored Nigeria’s capacity to achieve self-sufficiency in food production, urging continuous investment in agriculture to ensure food availability for all citizens.
The government also announced plans to intensify efforts in livestock development and management, besides cracking down on hoarders to stabilize food prices and ensure accessibility to essential commodities.
President Tinubu urged state governors to prioritize payment of salary arrears and gratuities to state workers and pensioners, aiming to inject liquidity into the economy. He discouraged the idea of establishing a price control board, emphasizing the need to support local farmers and resist food imports.
The National President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture, Dele Oye, lauded the government’s stance, advocating for enhanced collaboration to reinforce local agricultural productivity and combat inflationary pressures.
In a bid to address the root causes of the food crisis, the Federal Government announced the completion of irrigation projects spanning over 22,000 hectares. These projects aim to bolster food production and mitigate the effects of the prevailing food shortage.
Furthermore, the Nigeria Customs Service has intensified efforts to curb smuggling activities, particularly the illegal exportation of food items. The Minister of State for Labour and Employment assured Nigerians of the government’s commitment to finding lasting solutions to the rising cost of living crisis.
Amidst these challenges, the government seeks the support and prayers of Nigerians as it works towards restoring normalcy and economic stability.
Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
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Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
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I am writing to felicitate with Your Excellency, Atku Abubakar, GCON, former Vice-President of Nigeria (Zege Mule u Tiv & Wazirin Adamawa)
on the occasion of your 79th birthday anniversary.
I join your teeming admirers globally in celebrating you on this special day, an adorable Statesman and my Boss.
I recall with nostalgia, how countless generations have benefited from your generosity, wealth of experience and benevolence including being my key benefactor even as a young lawyer for my professional success.
Your Excellency, may your special day be filled with grandeur befitting your illustrious career.
I wish you continued success, prosperity, and an unending stream of accolades.
It takes a remarkable kind of fortitude to remain active in public life well into one’s golden years. Your dedication and patriotism remain truly exceptional.
May you enjoy a day of reflection on your many years of fruitful service to humanity. It is my prayer that God Almighty grants you many more healthy, fruitful, and fulfilling years ahead, and continues to endow you with wisdom, strength, and the grace to keep contributing to our nation-building.
Happy Birthday, Your Excellency.
Michael Kaase Aondoakaa SAN.
Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice
TAU reaffirms commitment to globally competitive learning
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