The Federal Government has launched a groundbreaking initiative to enhance Nigeria’s wheat production, aligning with its efforts to strengthen food security and reduce dependence on imported wheat.
The Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, who stated this in his office in Abuja, disclosed that the Ministry is thus advancing Nigeria’s wheat production through the National Agricultural Growth Scheme and Agro Pocket (NAGS-AP).
The initiative, he said, spans 16 wheat-producing States, aiming to enhance agricultural productivity and boost economic growth.
National Project Coordinator, Ishaku Buba, while briefing the Minister, informed that the scheme is targeting 280,000 smallholder farmers and a select group of medium-scale farmers in selected clusters.
Participants, he said, are required to contribute resources to cover inputs for one hectare of irrigated land, noting that fertilizer packages vary, with farmers in most States receiving 50kg of Urea and 100kg of NPK fertilizer, while farmers in Jigawa State will receive increased inputs due to its soil nutrient demands and a commitment of the State Government to boost wheat production.
He added that the project provides significant financial support, including 25% subsidies on certified wheat seeds and 50% subsidies on fertilizers, thus reducing costs for participating farmers.
To facilitate distribution, 409 redemption centres have been established, with 281 already operational, reaching 68,389 farmers (24.42% of the target).
The program is expected to conclude its input distribution phase later this month, aligning with the wheat planting calendar. Enhanced security measures have also been enacted, with personnel drawn from the Police, DSS, and NSCDC in place at redemption centres to ensure smooth operations.
In his closing remarks, HM Edun commended the project team for their efforts, emphasizing the scheme’s potential to strengthen food security, support rural economies, and reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported wheat.
With this innovative subsidy scheme, Nigeria is poised to make significant strides in wheat production, ultimately contributing to a more food-secure and prosperous nation.
