Why we suspended tariffs on grain imports — Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to addressing food security issues in the country and reducing the cost of living of citizens.

He said the government’s recent decision to temporarily suspend tariffs on imports of grains and other essential food items – a move announced by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security earlier this week – was a short-term measure to counter rising food prices across the country.

Speaking at the public launch of Chief Olusegun Osoba’s book, “My Public Life,” in Lagos on Saturday, the President, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, in a statement by his spokesman, Stanley Nkwoch, noted that the measures were specifically aimed at tackling food shortages and improving affordability for consumers.

“We are taking measures to address food shortages by temporarily lifting tariffs on imported grains and other food items,” President Tinubu said.

He stressed that the measure was part of a comprehensive strategy to improve the living conditions of all Nigerians.

While addressing short-term challenges, the President stressed the importance of long-term food self-sufficiency.

“We will continue to drive local production and ensure that what we eat and use is produced locally,” he added.

The President commended Chief Osoba, whom he affectionately called “Aremo 1”, for his significant contributions to Nigerian journalism and politics.

President Tinubu mentioned Osoba’s role as two-time governor of Ogun State and his important involvement in the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), a coalition formed in 1994 in response to the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, which many assumed was victorious for Chief MKO Abiola.

The coalition’s main objective was to force the then military government under General Sani Abacha to step down and restore democracy in Nigeria.

NADECO was composed of various pro-democracy activists, politicians and civil society leaders. Notable members included Chief Anthony Enahoro, Chief Ayo Adebanjo and Chief Olusegun Osoba.

“We owe him gratitude for his sacrifices,” said President Tinubu.

He encouraged other leaders to follow Osoba’s example and write books to share their experiences and provide guidance to future generations.

The President also stressed the importance of Nigeria’s diversity and unity, describing it as an important lesson for the nation, especially in difficult times.

“As we work to overcome our current challenges, we must not forget that unity and cooperation are essential,” Tinubu said, calling on Nigerians to support the government’s efforts to improve living conditions.

As the event coincided with Chief Osoba’s upcoming 85th birthday, President Tinubu expressed his gratitude for Osoba’s continued health and active lifestyle and wished him many more healthy years.

Earlier, Senate President Godswill Akpabio described the celebrant as someone who had been honoured by God with a long life.

He said Chief Osoba had made a great contribution to humanity, adding that he had over the years helped shape the future of democracy in Ogun State and Nigeria.

“We thank the celebrant for today’s book launch. By putting his thoughts on paper, he has helped to mentor the younger generation. His contributions to democracy and journalism are enormous,” he said.

Senator Akpabio urged Nigerians to support President Tinubu in his endeavour to extend the benefits of good governance to all citizens.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, also praised the celebrant’s commendable qualities, which he said were worthy of emulation.

The Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, described the celebrant as an outstanding personality who had dedicated his life to the service of humanity and had therefore bestowed on him numerous chieftainship titles and awards.

“He has left his mark in public service and journalism in Nigeria and beyond. His qualities are worthy of emulation and a role model for our future generations,” he said.

The governor added that Chief Osoba had contributed a lot to the socio-economic development of Ogun State.

“We will continue to celebrate you and I urge Nigerians to celebrate their leaders and those who have served them while they are still alive,” he added.

There were congratulatory messages from former Commonwealth Minister, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, business tycoons Mike Adenuga and Aliko Dangote, and Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat.

Also present at the event were Deputy President of the Senate, Jibrin Barau; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Mr. Wale Edun; Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, ‘Bosun Tijani; Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola; Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Ishaq Salako, and others.