By Ismaila Jimoh, Abuja
Small-holder farmers within the Federal Capital Territory, FCT have received a total of 11,729 bags of fertilizers from the National Agricultural Development Fund NADF a gesture aimed at boosting agricultural productivity through strategic support to farmers.
During the formal handing over ceremony in Abuja, FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud described the initiative as a timely intervention that demonstrates the government’s unwavering resolve to strengthen the agricultural sector and improve the livelihoods of farmers.
Mahmoud noted that agriculture remains a critical pillar of national development, stressing that investing in farmers is an investment in the nation’s prosperity, economic stability, and food security.
She expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary leadership and commitment to transforming Nigeria’s agricultural sector under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
She emphasized that the administration’s policies continue to empower farmers, boost local food production, and drive economic growth.
The Minister also commended the National Agricultural Development Fund for recognizing the vital role of small-holder farmers in the nation’s agricultural value chain, noting that the provision of quality farm inputs would increase crop yields and strengthen the resilience of farming communities across the FCT.
While congratulating the 2,930 beneficiaries, Mahmoud urged them to make judicious use of the fertilizers and embrace modern farming practices to maximize productivity, achieve food sufficiency, and reduce dependence on food imports.
She further reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Capital Territory Administration to partnering with relevant institutions and stakeholders to promote agricultural development through improved infrastructure, extension services, capacity building, and enhanced market access.
The Minister expressed optimism that the fertilizer distribution programme would contribute significantly to building a more resilient, productive, and prosperous agricultural sector capable of guaranteeing sustainable food security for all Nigerians.
Earlier, the Executive Secretary/CEO of the National Agricultural Development Fund, Engr. Mohammed Ibrahim stressed that the flag-off was another practical step towards food security, productivity, and inclusive economic growth under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He emphasized that agriculture must be treated as one of the strongest engines of national development.
According to him, “When we get agriculture right, we create jobs, strengthen rural communities, improve food supply, and put more value in the hands of farmers.
It is not fertiliser distribution for the sake of distribution. It is targeted support designed to get fertiliser to the right farmers, for the right crops, at the right time.”
Ibrahim revealed that the objective of the programme was aimed to reduce the cost of production, improve access to quality fertiliser, increase yield per hectare, and help strengthen food supply in the market.
