The International Human Rights Commission – Relief Fund Trust (IHRC-RFT) has urged the Federal Government to step down plans of providing funds to State Governors for the purchase and distribution of food to households.
This call is in collaboration with the United Nations Economic and Social Council UN (ECOSOC)
Country Director, (IHRC-RFT) Amb. Abdullahi Adamu noted this in a statement he personally signed Tuesday in Abuja.
According to the statement , the available food in Nigeria currently is insufficient, therefore, injecting large sums of money into the market to purchase food could significantly increase food prices, exacerbating the existing inflation in food prices.
“Among other reasons are price inflation on food , substantial funds allocated for food purchases can create artificial demand, leading to price hikes and further inflation.
The statement noted that this would worsen the economic condition of many Nigerians who are already struggling with high living costs.
It further stressed the need for sustainable solutions ,stating that while the intention of providing emergency aid is commendable, they believe that long-term and sustainable solutions are crucial for effectively addressing food scarcity.
“These solutions it said, includes supporting local agriculture, improving food supply chains, and enhancing food production capacity.
“We respectfully urge the government to reconsider this approach for the following reasons.
“Investment in Agriculture: and redirecting funds towards boosting domestic food production, providing support to farmers, and investing in modern agricultural technology can ensure sustainable food security in the long term.
Also, strengthening food Supply Chains, enhancing the efficiency of food supply chains, reducing wastage, and improving storage facilities will ensure that the available food reaches those who need it most.
The group also highlighted “targeted direct assistance programs among interventions that can effectively reach the population in urgent need of assistance.
“Implementing targeted direct assistance programs for those in dire need, such as direct cash transfers or food vouchers, can provide immediate relief without disrupting market dynamics.
“We commend the Federal government’s efforts to tackle food insecurity and understand the complexities involved in making such critical decisions.
“However, we firmly believe that reconsidering this approach is essential to avoid adverse economic impacts and to ensure that the intended aid reaches those in need effectively.
“IHRC-RFT Nigeria Chapter emphasizes that this advice aligns with key principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), particularly.
‘We work with local and international partners to improve lives and ensure adherence to human rights laws world-wide.
“We remain ready to support the Federal Government’s efforts and are keen to collaborate on finding sustainable solutions to enhance food security in Nigeria.”it stated.
The International Human Rights Commission – Relief Fund Trust (IHRC-RFT) is an international organization dedicated to protecting human rights and providing assistance to the vulnerable and those in crisis.
(NAN)