Association Hails Federal Govt Intervention As Falling Food Prices Affect Farmers

The All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) has welcomed assurances by the federal government to support farmers affected by the recent drop in food prices, warning that prices below production cost could undermine future agricultural output if left unchecked.

In a statement signed by its national president, Muhammed Magaji Gettado, the association commended the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, for announcing plans to cushion the impact of declining prices on farmers across the country.

AFAN acknowledged that the gradual reduction in food prices offers relief to consumers and aligns with the federal government’s food security objectives.

However, it noted that the trend has placed farmers under severe pressure, forcing many to sell produce at prices well below production costs.

The association warned that sustained losses could discourage farmers from returning to their fields in subsequent seasons, reduce overall output, and threaten the long-term sustainability of Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

The statement reads, “The association therefore welcomes the Honourable Minister’s assurance that the Federal Government is putting in place concrete measures to cushion the impact on farmers. AFAN suggests that these measures should include strategic production off-take, strengthened commodity aggregation, access to affordable financing, targeted input support, and expanded market stabilisation mechanisms to protect farmers from losses while sustaining the national food supply.

AFAN believes that this intervention reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to balancing the interests of both farmers and consumers, in line with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda for agricultural transformation, rural development, and economic stability.

“AFAN reiterates its readiness to collaborate with both Federal and State governments and other relevant agencies to ensure effective implementation of the proposed support measures. The Association emphasised that structured engagement with genuine farmer groups remains critical to achieving lasting solutions.