The Agricultural Transformation Agenda Support Program Phase-One (ATASP-1), funded by the African Development Bank, announced plans to purchase and store excess food in strategic reserves to curb post-harvest losses. Dr Romanus Egba, Zonal Programme Coordinator at ATASP-1 in Adani-Omor, Enugu, reassured that there is no cause for alarm despite recent food price crashes.
Egba explained that the food price dip followed a bumper 2024 harvest due to increased local production post-2023 crisis and the government’s decision to open borders to compete with imported food. However, this price drop has adversely impacted many farmers struggling to cover production costs.
Regarding insecurity affecting agricultural production in Enugu State, Egba praised the state government’s security efforts, including deploying Navy personnel and collaborating with local vigilantes to secure farms like the Ada Rice Irrigation System, enabling farmers to return safely.
The ATASP-1 initiative underscores Nigerian government efforts to enhance agricultural productivity, secure food supply chains, and ensure sustainable growth amid challenges.
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