From Kenneth Udeh, Abuja
The Senate has stipulated a one-year jail term for anyone found culpable of exporting unprocessed maize in large commercial quantities of one metric ton or higher out of Nigeria.
The amendment is part of a bill from the House of Representatives for concurrence by the Senate, aimed at prohibiting the exportation of maize in large commercial quantities.
The bill was passed after the majority of senators supported it via a voice vote during the Committee of the Whole, where the clauses were reviewed.
The bill was amended to specify that anyone who exports, causes, induces, or attempts to export unprocessed maize, whether in grains, on cobs, fresh, or dry, out of Nigeria in quantities of one metric ton or more will be committing an offence.
Those found guilty could face a fine equivalent to the value of the goods exported or a one-year prison sentence, or both.
The bill states that any customs officer or individual who aids, counsels, or conspires to facilitate the illegal exportation of maize will face the same penalties upon conviction.
“The Federal High Court will have jurisdiction over any offences committed under this legislation.”
The bill is titled “Bill to Prohibit the Exportation of Maize in Large Commercial Quantities from Nigeria and for Related Matters.”
The lawmakers say the bill is part of ongoing efforts to address the food crisis in the country.
The Senate Leader urged his colleagues to support the bill, which has already passed through the necessary legislative process in the House of Representatives.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who presided over the session, approved the amendment that limits the provision to only the exportation of maize.
He also emphasised that the bill would help create more jobs within Nigeria.