By Hosanna Eseose
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to achieving food security and enhancing agricultural productivity through targeted support for farmers, as the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) distributed 11,720 bags of fertiliser to 2,930 smallholder farmers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, made the commitment during the national flag-off and formal handover ceremony of the fertilisers held at the Pavilion Centre in Garki, Abuja.
Describing the initiative as a timely intervention, Mahmoud said it reflects the government’s determination to strengthen the agricultural sector and improve the livelihoods of farmers across the country.
She noted that agriculture remains a critical pillar of national development, emphasizing that investment in farmers translates directly into greater economic stability, national prosperity and food security.
The minister commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and commitment to transforming the agricultural sector under the Renewed Hope Agenda, adding that the administration’s policies continue to empower farmers, boost local food production and stimulate economic growth.
Mahmoud also praised the National Agricultural Development Fund for recognizing the vital role of smallholder farmers in Nigeria’s agricultural value chain.
According to her, the provision of quality farm inputs will increase crop yields and strengthen the resilience of farming communities throughout the FCT.
She urged the beneficiaries to make effective use of the fertilisers and adopt modern farming techniques to maximize productivity, attain food sufficiency and reduce dependence on food imports.
The minister further reiterated the commitment of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to collaborating with relevant institutions and stakeholders to advance agricultural development through improved infrastructure, extension services, capacity building and enhanced market access.
Expressing optimism about the impact of the programme, Mahmoud said the fertiliser distribution would contribute significantly to building a resilient and productive agricultural sector capable of guaranteeing sustainable food security for Nigerians.
Earlier, the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of NADF, Engr. Mohammed Ibrahim, described the initiative as another practical step toward achieving food security, increased productivity and inclusive economic growth under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He stressed that agriculture remains one of the strongest drivers of national development, noting that improved agricultural performance would create jobs, strengthen rural communities and enhance food supply.
“When we get agriculture right, we create jobs, strengthen rural communities, improve food supply and put more value in the hands of farmers,” Ibrahim said.
He explained that the fertiliser support programme was carefully targeted to ensure that the right farmers receive quality inputs for the right crops at the appropriate time.
According to him, the initiative is aimed at reducing production costs, improving access to quality fertiliser, increasing yield per hectare and strengthening food supply in markets across the country.
The programme is expected to support farming activities during the current planting season and contribute to the government’s broader objective of enhancing food production and reducing food inflation.