Ayo Akinfe Proposes 10-Point Plan for President Tinubu to Combat Inflation Crisis
Ayo Akinfe Proposes 10-Point Plan for President Tinubu to Combat Inflation Crisis
By Matthew Eloyi
Renowned commentator and journalist, Ayo Akinfe has put forward a comprehensive 10-point plan aimed at addressing the rampant inflation currently plaguing Nigeria. The proposal, directed at President Tinubu, outlines strategic measures to stabilise prices, ensure food security, and boost agricultural production across the nation.
Akinfe’s plan begins with the creation of a Presidential Anti-Inflationary Directorate (Paid), to be helmed by a leading economist such as Lamidi Sanusi, Arunma Oteh, Emmanuel Nnadozie, or Obiageli Ezekwesili. This directive aims to centralise efforts in combating inflation under a specialised body with the expertise and authority to enact effective measures.
Central to the proposal is the establishment of an Exclusive Food List (EFL), which would include essential staples like garri, rice, pepper, tomatoes, onions, yam, cooking oil, and cassava. These items would be ringfenced to ensure their availability and affordability for consumers.
Furthermore, the distribution of items on the EFL would be placed under the control of Paid, granting the directorate the power to set and regulate prices as necessary. Additionally, Paid would be empowered to import any staple facing domestic shortages, ensuring adequate supply in the market.
To support local farmers and incentivise increased output, Akinfe suggests the establishment of Paid-operated warehouses across all 774 local government areas. These warehouses would facilitate the sale of food crops at subsidised prices, while interest-free loans would be offered to farmers committed to boosting their production by at least 10%.
In addressing fuel scarcity, the proposal urges President Tinubu to expedite efforts to operationalise the Dangote refinery for mass fuel production by February. Moreover, transporters involved in the distribution of food items would receive Paid-backed petrol vouchers to mitigate operational costs.
Looking ahead, Akinfe emphasises the importance of long-term strategies to enhance agricultural output. This includes initiatives to improve rural infrastructure such as roads, on-farm storage facilities, refrigeration, and silo construction, ultimately bolstering the nation’s food security.
As Nigeria grapples with soaring inflation rates, Ayo Akinfe’s 10-point plan offers a comprehensive roadmap for President Tinubu to address the crisis effectively. With a focus on price stabilisation, food security, and agricultural development, the proposal aims to alleviate the economic strain on Nigerians while laying the groundwork for sustainable growth and prosperity.
