By Ologeh Joseph Chibu
President Bola Tinubu has arrived back in Nigeria after a two-week private trip to Paris, France.
He immediately summoned a meeting on food security after his arrival at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport, Abuja.
The presidential jet, NAF 001, landed at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja at approximately 9 pm on Tuesday night.
Several Government officials were at the Airport to welcome him.
The Government dignitaries, included Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike.
Also present were Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources Heineken Lokpobiri, and Director-General of the Department of State Service Yusuf Bichi, among others.
This marked Tinubu’s third visit to France and his 14th foreign trip since taking office eight months ago.
President Tinubu’s return coincides with protests in several states over the escalating costs of food and living expenses.
The President convened an emergency meeting to address the food security crisis gripping the nation.
Prices of food have continued to skyrocket amidst rising inflation and loss of jobs.
On Tuesday, Minister of Information and National Orientation Muhammed Idris revealed that President Tinubu had issued directives for immediate interventions to alleviate suffering and prevent further security challenges.
The Special Presidential Committee on Emergency Food Intervention, chaired by the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja, the minister emphasized the gravity of the situation.
“This special presidential committee is tasked with addressing the pressing issue of food shortages affecting many Nigerians,” Mohammed told reporters. “The President has instructed the government to take decisive action to address this crisis. We cannot stand by while our citizens suffer due to a lack of food security.”
He assured the public that discussions were underway and that concrete solutions were imminent. “Once these meetings are concluded, we will provide a comprehensive update on the government’s response. Rest assured, measures are being taken to provide relief to Nigerians,” Mohammed added.
Idris clarified that despite challenges, Nigeria was not facing a food shortage. He revealed ongoing negotiations with key stakeholders in the food industry to increase supply and stabilize prices.
“Government is engaging with millers and major commodity traders to ensure sufficient food supply at affordable prices,” he stated. “Additionally, measures are being taken to counteract opportunistic behavior exploiting the situation, especially amidst currency depreciation.”
Highlighting the broader implications, Idris noted the involvement of the National Security Adviser in the discussions, emphasizing the security ramifications of the food crisis.
“As discussions progress, we remain committed to safeguarding the well-being of all Nigerians and addressing the underlying issues contributing to this crisis,” the minister concluded, underscoring the government’s determination to tackle food insecurity head-on.