Nigerians nationwide have been grappling with the rising cost of food items, particularly beans, a staple protein source in many households. The All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) has stepped forward to address this issue, with its president, Kabir Kebram, emphatically stating that farmers are not responsible for the exorbitant prices.
Kebram argues that farmers are simply producers who sell their crops at the “farm gate,” the point at which the harvest is collected from the fields. They have no control over the subsequent pricing structure that consumers encounter in the market.
“Farmers are not responsible for pricing in the market,” Kebram asserts. “Farmers produce and sell at the farm gate. They are not traders.” He emphasizes the distinction between farmers, who focus on cultivation, and middlemen, who act as intermediaries between farms and consumers.
Shifting the Blame: Who Profits When Prices Rise?
The finger of blame, according to Kebram, points towards the middlemen who dictate the final market price. Farmers, he argues, have little to no say in this process. This lack of control over pricing creates a situation where farmers struggle to make a profit despite the rising cost of production.
“We only cover our cost of production and put a little margin,” Kebram explains. “But we have to cover the prices of inputs used.” These inputs include fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and even transportation costs, all of which have seen a significant increase in recent times.
Beyond the Farm Gate: A Complex Web of Factors
While the role of middlemen is a major concern, Kebram acknowledges that other factors contribute to the soaring prices of beans. These include:
- Reduced Crop Yield: Unpredictable weather patterns, such as droughts or floods, can significantly impact crop yields. A decrease in production naturally leads to a rise in prices.
- Seasonality: Certain crops, like beans, have specific seasons where they are harvested. The limited availability outside these peak seasons can drive up prices.
- Insecurity: Farmers across Nigeria face challenges due to insecurity in certain regions. This insecurity disrupts planting, harvesting, and transportation, further limiting the supply of crops.
- Fluctuations in Currency: The depreciation of the Nigerian Naira against other currencies can make imported agricultural inputs more expensive. This increased cost trickles down to the final consumer price.
Breaking the Cycle: Potential Solutions
Kebram proposes several solutions to address the issue of rising food prices:
- Empowering Farmers: Strengthening farmer cooperatives and creating direct farm-to-consumer channels would allow farmers to have more control over pricing and capture a larger share of the profits.
- Investing in Storage Facilities: Proper storage facilities would minimize post-harvest losses and ensure a more consistent supply of crops throughout the year, potentially mitigating price spikes during off-seasons.
- Improving Infrastructure: Upgrading transportation infrastructure would reduce transportation costs, a significant factor impacting the final price of food items.
- Security Measures: Addressing the security challenges in agricultural regions would allow farmers to cultivate their land safely and ensure a steady flow of produce to the market.
A Call for Collaboration: Farmers, Government, and Consumers
Kebram emphasizes the need for collaboration between farmers, the government, and consumers to address the issue of rising food prices. He urges the government to implement policies that support local farmers, such as providing subsidies for agricultural inputs and improving access to credit facilities. Consumers, he suggests, can play their part by being more informed about the challenges faced by farmers and supporting initiatives that promote fair pricing practices.
Beyond Beans: A Broader Food Security Challenge
The soaring price of beans is just one symptom of a larger issue: food security in Nigeria. Ensuring a reliable and affordable supply of staple foods is crucial for the well-being of the nation. By addressing the concerns raised by AFAN and implementing effective solutions, Nigeria can work towards a future where food is accessible and affordable for all citizens.
AFAN President’s Closing Remarks
Kebram concludes the discussion with a message of hope: “Nigerian farmers are hardworking and dedicated. We are committed to feeding the nation. However, we need a fair and supportive environment to operate. By working together, we can overcome these challenges and ensure that nutritious food remains accessible to all Nigerians.”
