With the onset of the rainy season, the Nigerian Army has deployed troops across several northern states to protect farmers, particularly in the North West and North Central regions.
This initiative, announced by Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, Director Defence Media Operations, aims to facilitate a smooth planting season and support efforts towards a bumper harvest.
The deployment comes as Nigeria grapples with severe food shortages and inflation rates exceeding 40 percent, as reported by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
Inflation peaked at 34.19 percent in June 2024 but slightly decreased to 33.40 percent in July.
A reminder that in response to soaring prices of essential goods, the Federal Government had introduced several measures, including suspending duties, tariffs, and taxes on the importation of key food items like maize, rice, wheat, and cowpeas for 150 days.
Additionally, the government has approved the purchase of 2,000 tractors and 1,200 trailers and established a committee to address the ongoing food crisis.