The Federal Government, through the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), has deployed 10,000 Agro Rangers to various states across the country. This move is part of a broader effort to address the growing insecurity that has negatively impacted food production nationwide.
The announcement was made by Olusegun Dada, Special Assistant to President Tinubu on New Media, via his official social media channels. The initiative is a collaboration between the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and the NSCDC, aimed at protecting farmers from threats such as the destruction of farmlands and conflicts between farmers and herders.
Dada’s post stated, “As part of ongoing efforts to enhance food security in the Northern region and other parts of the country, the Federal Government, through the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), has deployed over 10,000 Agro Rangers across 19 states and the FCT. The Agro Rangers will safeguard farmlands, protect farmers from escalating attacks, mediate conflicts between farmers and herders, and prevent malicious destruction of farmlands. While food inflation in the country is driven by various factors, insecurity has been a long-standing challenge. This collaboration between the NSCDC and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security is expected to address a significant issue faced by farmers across the country.”
Background
The deployment of Agro Rangers is part of a strategy devised by the federal government earlier this year through the National Economic Council (NEC). In February, the NEC proposed the establishment of Agro Rangers as an interim measure to combat insecurity in the agricultural sector until a more permanent solution, such as the establishment of state police, can be implemented.
Insecurity, particularly in the northern region, has driven many farmers off their land, leading to a substantial decline in food production and contributing to the sharp rise in food prices. Last week, attacks on farming communities in Benue State, known as the nation’s food basket, resulted in the tragic deaths of over 20 people.
As of July 2024, food inflation in Nigeria has soared to 40.87%. In response to these challenges, the federal government has proposed the establishment of state police forces. However, this proposal faces significant legislative hurdles, as it cannot be implemented through executive orders or solely by an act of parliament, despite the bill for state police passing its second reading in the National Assembly.
