FG, IFDC Sign MoU to Ease Farmers’ Access to Fertiliser

News in Brief:

—The partnership aims to make fertiliser more affordable, available and accessible to smallholder farmers across Nigeria.

—The agreement will support soil testing, balanced nutrient management and private-sector-led fertiliser distribution.

The Federal Government has entered into a partnership with the International Fertiliser Development Centre (IFDC) to improve farmers’ access to fertiliser and address challenges affecting agricultural productivity.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, is designed to strengthen fertiliser supply systems, improve distribution networks and support sustainable farming practices.

Partnership Targets Fertiliser Supply Challenges

The agreement focuses on tackling key barriers faced by smallholder farmers, including high fertiliser costs, limited availability and delays in distribution.

Under the partnership, the government and IFDC will work together to improve fertiliser delivery systems and expand access to quality agricultural inputs across the country.

The initiative will also promote stronger private sector participation in fertiliser distribution to ensure farmers receive supplies more efficiently.

Speaking at the signing ceremony in Abuja, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Mr Marcus Olaniyi Ogunbiyi, described fertiliser as a vital component of agricultural development.

He said access to affordable fertiliser often determines the success of a farming season, as it directly influences crop yields and overall productivity.

According to him, the partnership will help improve soil fertility management, encourage sustainable agricultural practices, and support increased food production.

Focus on Soil Health and Balanced Nutrient Management

The collaboration will include expanded soil testing programmes and improved nutrient management strategies to help farmers apply fertiliser more effectively.

The government said better soil management will reduce waste, improve farm output and support long-term agricultural sustainability.

Stakeholders believe the approach will strengthen the country’s agricultural value chain while improving the livelihoods of rural farming communities.

The Executive Director of IFDC, Mr Ben Lenkcher, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to providing technical and logistical support to farmers in Nigeria.

He said the partnership aligns with efforts to improve fertiliser availability, affordability and accessibility nationwide.

Both parties expressed confidence that the collaboration would contribute to stronger agricultural systems, improved productivity and enhanced food security for Nigeria’s growing population.