The Nigerian Senate has officially passed a bill criminalizing the exportation of unprocessed maize in commercial quantities, aiming to address the country’s food security challenges.
The legislation prohibits the export of unprocessed maize in any form, whether as grains, on cobs, fresh, or dried, in quantities of at least one metric ton. Violators face penalties including a minimum one-year jail term, a fine equivalent to the monetary value of the exported maize, or both. Customs officers or other individuals who facilitate such exports are also subject to these penalties. The Federal High Court has jurisdiction over cases under the bill.
Initially proposed by the House of Representatives, the bill underwent significant revisions in the Senate. One of the key changes was the exclusion of maize derivatives such as corn flour, cornmeal, and cornflakes from the prohibition. This amendment, supported by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, aims to encourage local processing industries and job creation.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele emphasized the bill’s importance in addressing Nigeria’s ongoing food crisis and fostering value addition within the agricultural sector. The legislation now moves to a conference committee for harmonization between the Senate and House versions before being presented to the president for assent.
This development reflects Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its agricultural sector, promoting local industries, and enhancing food security.