Nigeria bans foreigners from dealing directly with farmers, plans to draft law for same
The new directive by the government is said to prevent foreigners, usually Chinese and Lebanese nationals, from buying agricultural products at lower prices from farmers.
The Nigerian government has banned foreigners and their representatives from purchasing agricultural produce directly from farmers in the country.
In addition, its Attorney-General’s office is preparing to draft a law, to be sent to its Federal National Assembly to support the implementation of the new policy.
In a tweet announcing the ban, the Federal Executive Council said “only licensed local buying agents can buy products directly from farmers in Nigeria.”
The ban is said to prevent foreigners, usually Chinese and Lebanese nationals, from buying agricultural products at lower prices from farmers.
Local media say the new directive has been welcomed by some stakeholders, while others express worry.
“Allow the market to operate freely. Whoever knows the road to the market, let him go. Local farmers should also be able to make international contacts and sell directly,” Ahmed Tijjani is reported to have said on Twitter.
