The Federal Government has distributed 80,640 bags of fertiliser to farmers across the South-East as part of its efforts to boost agricultural production, improve food security and reduce the rising cost of food in the country.
The fertiliser distribution, carried out under the government’s agricultural support programme, is expected to assist thousands of smallholder farmers ahead of the current planting season. The initiative aims to increase crop yields by ensuring that farmers have access to essential farm inputs at the right time.
Government officials said the intervention demonstrates the administration’s commitment to strengthening the agricultural sector and supporting farmers in overcoming the challenges posed by high input costs. They noted that improving access to fertiliser would help increase food production, enhance farmers’ incomes and contribute to national economic growth.
According to the Federal Government, the allocation of 80,640 bags of fertiliser to the South-East forms part of a nationwide programme designed to support crop cultivation across all geopolitical zones. The exercise is also intended to encourage greater participation in agriculture, particularly among young people and rural communities.
Beneficiaries were urged to use the fertiliser strictly for farming purposes to maximise its impact on food production. Authorities warned against the diversion or sale of the farm inputs, stressing that appropriate monitoring mechanisms have been put in place to ensure the fertiliser reaches genuine farmers.
Agricultural stakeholders welcomed the intervention, describing it as timely given the increasing cost of farming inputs and the need to improve domestic food production. They, however, called for complementary measures such as improved access to quality seeds, irrigation facilities, mechanised farming equipment and affordable financing to achieve sustainable agricultural growth.
Experts also emphasised the importance of strengthening extension services to help farmers adopt modern farming techniques that can improve productivity and reduce post-harvest losses. They argued that combining quality inputs with technical support would significantly enhance crop yields and improve food availability across the country.
The fertiliser distribution is expected to benefit farmers cultivating major food crops such as rice, maize, cassava, yam and vegetables, which play a critical role in ensuring food security and supporting livelihoods in the South-East.
As Nigeria continues to address food inflation and rising demand for agricultural products, the Federal Government says it will sustain programmes that improve farmers’ access to essential inputs, encourage increased cultivation and strengthen the country’s agricultural value chain. The initiative is expected to contribute to higher food production, lower market prices over time and greater economic resilience in the agricultural sector.
SOURCE: DAILY TRUST
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