Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar criticises Nigeria’s federal government over what he calls a collapse in agricultural exports and a shift toward food imports. In statements carried by multiple outlets, Atiku says the country’s agricultural trade performance has worsened sharply, pointing to a large reversal in the trade balance.
Atiku alleges that the Tinubu administration has increased Nigeria’s dependence on imported food while neglecting local farmers and producers. Different reports cite the size and direction of the swing using specific figures, including a shift from a surplus to a deficit over roughly one year. He also calls for policy changes, including production subsidies for farmers and processors, as a way to support domestic output and processing.
The outlets present Atiku’s claims as political criticism aimed at the Tinubu government, focusing on trade figures and the alleged impacts on farmers, exports, and import dependence. None of the provided sources include a direct response from the government.
