FG To Establish Soil Testing Labs In 774 LGs

Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, has hinted at plans to establish soil testing laboratories in all 774 local government areas (LGAs) as part of the Nigeria Farmers’ Soil Health Card Scheme (NFSHCS).

The initiative, which aimed to enhance soil health and agricultural productivity, was revealed by the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sabi Abdullahi during the inauguration of the National Executive Technical Committee for the implementation of the scheme in Abuja.

In his address, Abdullahi highlighted the critical role of the scheme in achieving sustainable agriculture in line with President Bola Tinubu’s vision for a vibrant agricultural sector.

The scheme focused on site-specific and crop-specific sustainable soil health management practices, which incorporate agroecology and regenerative agriculture principles.

Key objectives of the NFSHCS include; defining appropriate soil fertility management practices, improving soil health and fertility through various methods such as crop rotation and mulching, and enhancing extension services on fertility management.

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According to the minister, the scheme also aimed to generate employment for rural youth, expedite soil sample analysis, and introduce a Single Window approach for issuing Soil Health Cards (SHCs) to minimise delays and maximise convenience for farmers.

The National Executive Technical Committee of the scheme, chaired by the director, Department of Agricultural Land Climate Change Management Services Oshadiya Olanipekun is expected to oversee the implementation and monitoring of the scheme.

Their responsibilities also include; identifying beneficiaries for the soil testing laboratories, ensuring the establishment of these facilities, and providing necessary training for laboratory operations.

The NEC will also monitor and display program details and beneficiaries’ information on the soil health portal for transparency and social audit purposes.

The scheme will initially span four years, with the formal launch by President Tinubu expected in the last quarter of the year, pending his final approval.

The minister urged the committee to work collaboratively, engage stakeholders, foster partnerships, drive innovation, and ensure inclusivity and equity in implementing the Soil Health programme under the current administration’s food security initiatives.