…Calls for Urgent Government Action
In Enugu, the escalating food inflation crisis has sparked deep concerns among residents as prices continue to surge, impacting the affordability of essential food items. Despite not being ranked among the top states for food inflation according to the NBS February report, the region is experiencing a worrying trend of rising prices that is pushing the cost of meals to unsustainable levels.
A recent investigation by former Nigeria’s Minister for Aviation, Osita Chidoka revealed that the cost of a single meal at local eateries has significantly increased compared to the previous year, putting a strain on wage earners who earn around 100,000 naira per month. While previously only needing to allocate 1.5%-2% of their salary for meals, individuals are now forced to spend as much as 5%, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Chidoka, has raised the alarm on the urgent need for government intervention to address the root causes of the food inflation crisis. Chidoka emphasized the necessity for a strategic focus on enhancing food production by implementing initiatives that bolster the agricultural sector and encourage farmers to return to their fields.
Proposals for investment in transport infrastructure, particularly the completion of national highway projects linking food production hubs to consumption centers, have been put forth as a means to reduce costs and improve accessibility. Chidoka stressed the importance of prioritizing practical solutions over ambitious projects to address the pressing issue at hand.
Advocating for transparent subsidized financing for the agriculture sector, Chidoka underscored the critical role of government support in boosting food production and stabilizing the inflation rate, which currently stands at over 30% annually. Urgency is paramount, as the health and well-being of the populace hang in the balance, necessitating immediate action to avert a national emergency.
