The Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has raised concerns about the nation’s annual expenditure of $480 million on importing three tonnes of rice, describing the situation as unacceptable. This disclosure was made by NEPC Executive Director and CEO, Nonye Ayeni, during a one-day technical support workshop for rice farmers and processors held in Lokoja, Kogi State. Ayeni, represented by Deputy Director of Policy and Strategy, Mr. Aliu Sadiq, emphasized that NEPC has devised strategies to reduce rice imports by boosting local production.

Highlighting the importance of rice as a staple food consumed across all socio-economic classes and regions in Nigeria, Ayeni stressed the significance of local production to achieve self-sufficiency. She explained that Kogi State was chosen for the workshop because it is the second-largest rice producer in Nigeria, with an annual yield of 1.5 million metric tonnes. Ayeni encouraged farmers to adopt the techniques and practices shared during the workshop for enhanced productivity.

Ayeni further noted that the federal government, under its Renewed Hope Agenda, is committed to addressing key challenges such as security, infrastructure deficits, foreign exchange availability, and inputs to support farmers and improve agricultural output.

Usenide Aniekpeno, NEPC Kogi State Coordinator, underscored rice’s dual role as a vital dietary staple and a significant economic driver for millions of Nigerians. He described its potential to transform livelihoods through its economic opportunities.

Victor Omifaiye, Director-General of the Kogi Commodity Exchange, detailed efforts by the state government to facilitate farmers’ access to agricultural loans through NEXIM and the Bank of Agriculture. Similarly, Femi Ajisafe highlighted the need for government intervention in stabilizing farm product prices, warning that unchecked buyer-dominated pricing could discourage young Nigerians from pursuing farming.

The workshop reflects a collective effort to address Nigeria’s rice import dependence, improve local production, and support the agricultural sector as a cornerstone of food security and economic growth.