Nigeria is moving to shut down rice import windows following a national policy review that reportedly found imports have created surplus supply, depressing prices and worsening losses for domestic farmers.
Officials linked to the Presidential Food Systems Coordinating Unit reportedly stated that maize and rice farmers recorded negative margins during the 2025 wet season, driven by high production costs and weak sale prices. The government’s new direction is expected to prioritize local production while introducing price protection mechanisms to safeguard farmer livelihoods and preserve national food security.
Supporters argue the policy reset will stabilize rural incomes and reduce exposure to import shocks. Critics caution that if local output cannot meet demand, consumers—particularly in urban centers—could face renewed price pressures. Separate reporting has also referenced national food balance figures indicating a notable surplus in late 2025.
Echotitbits take: This is a return to protectionist policies. While it helps farmers, the government must ensure that local supply is actually sufficient to prevent a price spike for consumers in urban areas.
Source: BusinessDay – https://businessday.ng/news/article/nigeria-to-shut-rice-import-windows-as-data-exposes-farmers-losses/ 2026-01-26
Photo Credit: BusinessDay
