President Bola Tinubu has taken decisive action in response to the looming hunger crisis gripping the nation, directing key security agencies including the Department of State Services (DSS), the National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu, and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, to closely monitor warehouses hoarding food supplies nationwide.
Tinubu’s directive aims to thwart profiteering practices and ensure equitable distribution of essential food items.
The announcement was made through a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, following a high-level meeting at the State House involving state governors and security officials.
In addition to the crackdown on hoarding, President Tinubu implored state governors to collaborate closely with the Federal Government to ramp up local food production.
He cautioned against over-reliance on food imports as a short-term solution to the prevailing shortages, emphasizing the need to bolster domestic agricultural capacity.
“The President directed that the State Governments and Federal Government should collaborate to increase local food production,” Onanuga reiterated, echoing Tinubu’s call for a concerted effort to enhance agricultural output.
Furthermore, Tinubu lauded the proactive measures undertaken by Kano State in addressing food hoarding, urging other governors to emulate similar strategies to combat profiteering by unscrupulous merchants.
“The President charged governors to pay attention to livestock development in their states and increase production, most especially poultry and fishing products,” Onanuga revealed, highlighting Tinubu’s emphasis on diversifying food sources to alleviate scarcity.
In a bid to stimulate economic activity and alleviate financial strain on citizens, President Tinubu urged governors to prioritize the settlement of salary arrears, gratuities, and pensions. By injecting liquidity into the economy, Tinubu asserted, states can empower citizens and stimulate consumption.
“Spend the money, don’t spend the people,” Tinubu admonished, underscoring the importance of prudent fiscal management to uplift livelihoods amidst economic challenges.
As the nation grapples with the specter of hunger, Tinubu’s proactive measures underscore a commitment to safeguarding food security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
By leveraging collaborative efforts between government agencies and state authorities, Tinubu seeks to mitigate the impact of the crisis and ensure the welfare of all citizens.
