Senate moves to cut rice imports, boost food security

The Nigerian Senate has advanced efforts to strengthen the country's food system by reviewing three key bills aimed at boosting local production and reducing dependence on imports. Among these bills are the National Food Reserve Agency Bill and the Mandatory Cassava Inclusion in Flour Production Bill, both supported by Senator Saliu Mustapha. The National Rice Council Board Bill, proposed by Senator Adamu Aliero, aims to coordinate rice production, processing, and distribution nationwide, with the goal of reducing imports that cost Nigeria approximately $2 billion annually.