On Saturday, the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) applauded the federal government’s ban on foreign nationals’ direct purchase of farm produce.

“AFAN appreciates this proactive step which is to boost food security, protect farmers and enhance agricultural activities in the country,” National Secretary of AFAN, Muhammed Magaji, said in a statement issued in Damaturu.

Also, Mr Magaji solicited the government’s support in providing loans for AFAN members.

“AFAN is seeking intervention by the Federal Government through the CBN and the Bank of Agriculture to provide members with harvest loans.

“This will enable farmers to harvest their crops without being compelled to sell to foreigners at ridiculously low prices because of the scarcity of funds at the time of harvest,” he stated.

Mr Magaji said that the desire for harvest loans is borne out of the need to protect farmers from being short-charged and compel foreign nationals to go through licensed local agents to conduct business.

Last Wednesday, Muhammadu Buhari’s administration barred foreigners from directly buying Nigerian farmers’ agricultural produce. It instead handed the deal to indigenous middlemen.

(NAN)