The Chairman of Sunshine Rice Farmers, Prince George Oladapo, has defended the Federal Government’s decision to allow rice importation into the country, saying the move became necessary to stabilise prices and address shortages caused by insecurity and rising production costs.
Speaking during an interview with THE HOPE, Oladapo described the situation as a “dual issue,” noting that while importation may have disadvantages, it also serves as a temporary measure to cushion the impact of insufficient local production.
He revealed that the Federal Government approved importation following alleged hoarding of rice by certain groups before the current administration came into office.
He added, “The Federal Government took it upon itself to allow importation because there was hoarding of rice by a particular group of people that existed before the commencement of this administration.”
Oladapo explained that many rice farmers across the country are currently unable to produce at full capacity due to insecurity, high costs of farm inputs, and rising labour expenses.
He enthused, “Farmers are not able to go to their farms as they should because of insecurity across the country. Farm implements are expensive, chemicals used on farms are costly and labour is also on the high side.”
He said the importation policy was introduced to prevent a sharp increase in rice prices in the open market, adding, “Allowing importation is like a subsidy in order not to have a sharp effect on the scarcity and high cost of rice in the market.”
Speaking on concerns that rice importation could negatively affect local farmers and the nation’s Gross Domestic Product, GDP, the farmers’ chairman said the issue has both positive and negative implications.
He explained, “If farmers are not producing enough of what Nigerians consume, then there must be a way out. Without importation, rice prices would rise significantly in the market.”
He, however, expressed optimism that local rice production would improve during the current wet farming season.
He informed, “We are commencing the wet season now. After this farming season, we should begin to see improvements in local production.”
Oladapo also dismissed claims that imported rice is cheaper than locally produced rice, insisting that Nigerian rice remains affordable and suitable for consumers.
He said, “Our rice here is still okay for consumers. I am not a supporter of imports, and I believe our rice is still cheaper than the imported one.”
On insecurity affecting farming communities, particularly in Ondo State, Oladapo called for stronger collaboration among security agencies and community stakeholders to tackle kidnapping and attacks on farmers, saying that improving security remains critical to boosting agricultural productivity.
He added, “We must improve the security apparatus in the country generally. Security is everybody’s business.”
He urged security agencies, including Amotekun Corps, agro-rangers, vigilante groups and paramilitary organisations, to work together and strengthen intelligence sharing.
He further stressed, “We need synergy among all security agencies. Traditional rulers must also be actively involved. Communities should know who comes in and who lives within their areas.”
The rice farmers’ chairman acknowledged reports of insecurity in farming communities, especially in Akure North area of Ondo State, but expressed confidence that ongoing efforts by the government and security agencies would yield positive results.