The National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) has started distributing free fertilizer to 20,160 smallholder farmers across the South-West geopolitical zone under its Renewed Hope Farm Input Support Programme (FISP).
NADF Executive Secretary Mr. Mohammed Ibrahim stated on Friday that 80,640 bags of fertilizer would be distributed to beneficiaries during the 2026 wet farming season.
He explained that the intervention aims to boost agricultural productivity, reduce production costs, and increase food output.
According to Ibrahim, the programme is designed to support genuine farmers and strengthen national food security as part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“FISP ensures fertilizer reaches the right farmers, for the right crops, at the right time. It aligns with President Tinubu’s commitments to food security, agricultural transformation, and inclusive economic growth. The programme is tailored to the agricultural strengths of participating states, focusing support on priority crops critical to food production and market stability. All fertilizers are locally produced, traceable, and clearly branded ‘Not For Sale’. Each bag is linked to verified beneficiaries to ensure transparency, accountability, and to prevent diversion,” he said.
The Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Aliyu Abdullahi, said the programme is part of the federal government’s efforts to reduce production costs, increase agricultural output, and achieve sustainable food security.
Additionally, Muhammad Magaji, President of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), stated that the intervention would significantly lower farmers’ production costs, improve yields, and boost productivity.
He emphasized that the South-West rollout of FISP demonstrates the government’s commitment to expanding food production, stabilizing prices, and building a food-secure, resilient nation.
Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, said the initiative would enhance agricultural productivity and support efforts to make agriculture a driver of economic growth, job creation, and food security.
He commended the federal government, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, and NADF for implementing practical initiatives that directly support farmers and foster collaboration with states.
