The Federal government has launched the National Farmers Soil Health Scheme (NFSHS) to tackle the low productivity of farmers and the high cost of production.
The Guardian reported that farmers incur a high cost of production through indiscriminate fertilizer application and the waste associated. The scheme is aimed at promoting tailored fertilizer recommendations based on specific crops and locations, helping farmers to achieve maximum yields, enhance income and sustainable food security.
The Minister of State, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Sabi Abdullahi, while speaking at the launch of the NFSHS yesterday, in Abuja, disclosed that the Federal Government was establishing 774 soil testing laboratories across Local Government Areas; and also provide personalised soil health cards for farmers, which include details on soil fertility, PH levels, and fertilizer recommendations.
He also hinted at plans to collect at least 1,200 soil samples per geopolitical zone yearly, saying the precision-based approach will effectively boost production and ensure food security.
“The scheme will also increase farmers’ income through enhanced crop yields and lower input costs, foster sustainable agricultural practices and decrease greenhouse gas emissions, increase agricultural productivity, lessen dependence on food imports and strengthen its food sovereignty,” he said
The minister added that it will also reduce fertilizer load, leading to groundwater pollution and conformity to residue limits in agricultural produce for local consumption and exports, saying the establishment of soil testing laboratories across the 774 local government areas would help generate job opportunities for rural youth and women.
Stressing the importance of healthy soils to supply nutrients for plant growth, regulate water, support biodiversity, and aid in climate change mitigation, Abdullahi said the ministry was implementing innovative strategies to establish a resilient and thriving agricultural sector, which will foster economic growth, prosperity, and a brighter future for all Nigerians.
The Chairman, House Committee on Agricultural Production and Services, Bello Kaoje, described the initiative as a strategic and timely intervention to address the root of Nigeria’s food security challenge.
He said: “Healthy soil means higher yield, better nutrition, and resilience to climate change. The National Assembly will ensure this scheme is implemented with transparency, efficiency, and tangible benefits for our farmers.”
The highlight of the event was the launch of the scheme by the representative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senator Salihu Mustafa, who also presented Soil Health Cards to the farmers.
The Vice President of All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) commended the launch of the initiative but stressed the need to involve the private sector so as to ensure sustainability.
He said, “This is a laudable initiative, but there is a need to get buy-in from the private sector, because budget release may affect effective implementation of the scheme, but with the private sector, sustainability is guaranteed.”
