The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening food security and improving agricultural productivity with...
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening food security and improving agricultural productivity with the launch of the Renewed Hope Smallholder Farmers Support and Value Chain Development Programme in Zaria, Kaduna State.
Speaking at the launch, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, said the initiative is designed to support about two million smallholder farmers across the country through improved access to agricultural inputs and financing.
Kyari disclosed that more than 10 million bags of fertiliser would be distributed to farmers at subsidised rates with only minimal administrative charges, describing the intervention as a major step towards achieving sustainable food production.
He said the programme aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritises increased agricultural productivity, food sufficiency and economic empowerment for farmers.
According to the minister, timely access to quality farm inputs will enable farmers to increase crop yields, strengthen national food security and ultimately reduce the cost of food across the country.
In his remarks, the National President of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Faruq Mudi Kumo, described the initiative as a landmark intervention capable of transforming Nigeria's agricultural sector.
He commended the Federal Government for prioritising farmers' welfare and expressed optimism that the programme would significantly enhance food production and improve rural livelihoods.
Also speaking, the Group Managing Director of the Bank of Agriculture (BoA), Mr. Ayo Sotinrin, said the bank, in partnership with Arzikin Noma Africa, would continue to complement government efforts by providing farmers with fertilisers, improved seeds and agrochemicals under flexible repayment arrangements after harvest.
Sotinrin said Nigeria's annual grain production, currently estimated at about 11 million metric tonnes, is projected to increase to 25 million metric tonnes under the new agricultural financing initiative.
He explained that the programme is structured to improve farmers' access to affordable inputs, boost productivity and strengthen the country's food security.
On his part, the Group Managing Director of Arzikin Noma Africa, Mr. Adeoluwa Michael Adeshola, stressed that sustained private sector participation would be critical to the long-term success of the programme.
He noted that while government should continue providing policy direction and financial support, the private sector is better positioned to drive implementation because of its close relationship with farmers and understanding of agricultural value chains.
Adeshola also urged beneficiaries to repay agricultural loans promptly to ensure the sustainability of the intervention and enable more farmers to benefit in subsequent phases.
Some beneficiaries who spoke at the event expressed appreciation to the Federal Government and its partners, pledging to make effective use of the inputs to increase food production and improve their livelihoods.
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