Federal Govt Flags Off Distribution Of Fertiliser To Farmers Nationwide

The federal government has flagged off the nationwide distribution of 515,720 bags of urea and NPK fertilisers to 128,930 smallholder farmers across 25 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) under the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) Renewed Hope Farm Input Support Programme (FISP).

The project is expected to boost food production and strengthen national food security.

The Vice President, Kashim Shettima, at the national launch in Abuja, described the intervention as a significant step towards enhancing agricultural productivity, reducing farmers’ burden, and improving rural livelihoods.

Represented by the minister of state for agriculture and food security, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, disclosed that 11,210 bags of fertiliser would be distributed to 2,930 registered farmers in the FCT, noting that the programme is specifically targeted at smallholder farmers cultivating less than 0.5 hectares of land, who constitute a critical segment of Nigeria’s food production system.

“The provision of 515,720 bags of urea and NPK fertilisers to 128,930 smallholder farmers underscores this administration’s resolve to uplift our farmers and enhance agricultural productivity,” he said.

Shettima stressed the need for transparency and accountability in the distribution process, urging all stakeholders to ensure that the fertilisers reach the intended beneficiaries, particularly women, youths and vulnerable farmers across the country.

Speaking at the event, the executive secretary of NADF, Mohammed Abu Ibrahim, said the intervention comes at a crucial period in the farming calendar when access to quality inputs is essential for improved crop yields and increased agricultural output.

According to him, the programme is designed to cushion the impact of rising production costs on farmers while contributing to the country’s broader food security objectives.

He explained that the farm input support programme is a targeted initiative that delivers critical agricultural inputs to farmers when they are most needed, adding that mechanisms have been put in place to ensure transparency and accountability throughout the distribution process.

“Food security is not a side issue. It is a national priority. It is central to economic stability, rural prosperity, job creation and the well-being of the Nigerian household.

The Farm Input Support Programme (FISP) is a targeted intervention designed to deliver the right inputs to the right farmers at the right time,” he said.

Ibrahim further revealed that all fertilisers distributed under the scheme are locally produced, fully traceable, and clearly labelled “Not for Sale” to prevent diversion and ensure that the support reaches genuine beneficiaries.

Also speaking, chairman of the House of Representatives committee on agriculture production and services, Bello Kaoje, described the initiative as a practical response to food insecurity and rising hunger, saying it would help increase food production, stabilise market prices and support inclusive economic growth.

The federal government said the programme’s implementation would be closely monitored to ensure transparency, accountability, and measurable outcomes in farm productivity, food availability, and rural livelihoods, as Nigeria intensifies efforts to achieve sustainable food security.