The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday passed for second reading a Bill seeking the establishment of a National Food Reserve Agency.
The Bill is sponsored by Senator Salihu Mustapha (APC, Kwara Central).
Presenting the Bill on the floor of the Senate Chamber, Senator Mustapha stated the importance to mitigate post-harvest issues in the country.
He stated that the Bill seeks a legal framework that would help in mitigating post-harvest issues including the impact of climate change.
“The National Food Reserve Agency when established, would facilitate, and provide guidelines for the establishment and maintenance of buffer stock. Which would ensure price stabilization and food security.
“The proposed National Food Reserve Agency will be responsible for storing food grains and other commodities for strategic purposes.
“The present hardship faced concerning soaring prices of food commodities can be mitigated with the existence of this agency. Which could have ensured price stabilization and availability of food produce with the maintenance of buffer stock,” he said.
The Senate, after debating the Bill passed it for second reading. It then referred to the Committee on Agriculture for more legislative input and to report back in four weeks.
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