The National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), in collaboration with the Farm Inputs Support Services (FISS) and other stakeholders, has validated a harmonized fertilizer application manual aimed at improving soil health, food production, and national food security.
Mr Mohammed Ibrahim, Executive Secretary of NADF, announced this at the National Stakeholder Validation Workshop on the Harmonized Fertilizer Application Manual in Abuja on Tuesday.
Ibrahim said the workshop underscored stakeholders’ continued commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
He identified fertilizer as a major driver of agricultural productivity but noted that it only delivers value when applied correctly and responsibly.
According to him, inconsistent or fragmented guidance leads to inefficiency and poses long-term risks to soil health.
“A harmonized national manual helps promote better yields, smarter input use, and more sustainable farming practices,” he said.
Ibrahim explained that the validation exercise aligned with NADF’s mandate to support agricultural development through evidence-based interventions and strong partnerships.
“We are focused on impact—improving productivity, safeguarding soil health, and strengthening food security.
“The purpose of this workshop is to validate the manual, agree on final technical positions, and ensure it is practical for farmers, extension workers, and other end-users across different agro-ecological zones,” he said.
He urged participants to engage actively, provide practical recommendations, and ensure a clear pathway for national adoption and implementation.
Also speaking, Mr Abana Abba, Director of FISS, described harmonized fertilizer application as critical to enhancing crop productivity, improving farmers’ profitability, promoting sustainable economic growth, and strengthening national food security.
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Abba identified low soil fertility as a major factor contributing to low agricultural productivity.
“Application of manure and fertilizer helps replenish soil nutrients. Fertilizer is therefore a critical farm input for increasing crop yields and output.
“However, fertilizer use has long been guided by blanket recommendations that do not reflect the diverse nutrient needs of soils across agro-ecological zones or the economic realities of farmers,” he said.
Abba noted that blanket recommendations often result in over-application in some areas, under-application in others, or nutrient imbalances.
He said the validation exercise marked a deliberate step towards precision agriculture.
“By validating this manual, we are ensuring that farmers apply the right nutrients, at the right rate, at the right time, and in the right place,” he said.
According to him, the objective is to move from generalized and inefficient practices to site-specific fertilizer recommendations that are scientifically sound, economically viable, and environmentally sustainable.
Abba added that the initiative would also help address hidden hunger caused by micronutrient deficiencies.
“Healthy soils produce healthy plants, and healthy plants contribute to healthy lives. This effort goes beyond food security to nutrition security,” he said.
Participants at the workshop included representatives of the Fertilizer Producers and Suppliers Association of Nigeria (FEPSAN), the Organic Fertilizer Producers and Suppliers Association of Nigeria (OFPSAN), and the All Farmers Association of Nigeria.
Others included the International Fertilizer Development Centre, Oxfam, and additional stakeholders.
