FG distributes 100,800 bags of fertiliser to northern farmers

The National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) has started distributing 100,800 bags of fertiliser to 25,200 smallholder farmers in Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, and Jigawa states.

The fertiliser distribution is being carried out under the Renewed Hope Farm Input Support Programme (FISP), which aims to reduce farming costs, improve access to quality farm inputs, and increase food production across the country.

Speaking during the launch of the programme in Katsina State, NADF Executive Secretary, Mohammed Ibrahim, said the initiative supports President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and is designed to strengthen food security.

According to him, each beneficiary farmer will receive four bags of fertiliser free of charge. Each participating state will get 20,160 bags, which will be distributed to 5,040 farmers selected through the state chapters of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN).

Ibrahim explained that the fertilisers are produced locally and have been marked “Not for Sale” to prevent diversion and illegal resale. He also revealed that NADF plans to deploy more than 1,800 agricultural extension workers across the country to provide farmers with technical support and modern farming knowledge.

The NADF boss noted that the agency has already supported more than 5,000 ginger farmers affected by disease outbreaks in Kaduna State. It has also assisted onion farmers impacted by flooding in Kebbi and Sokoto states.

Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, praised President Tinubu for giving priority to agriculture. He described the fertiliser distribution programme as an important step towards improving farm productivity and ensuring food security.

Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, said the programme reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting smallholder farmers and encouraging local fertiliser production.

Kyari added that the initiative is in line with the food security emergency declared by President Tinubu and is expected to boost agricultural output, create jobs, and improve food availability across Nigeria.

The event was attended by government officials, representatives of the governors of Kaduna and Jigawa states, lawmakers, ministers, and other stakeholders in the agricultural sector.