National Assembly Seeks Emergency Support for Farmers

By Our Reporter

The National Assembly is pushing for urgent assistance for Nigerian farmers, who are struggling with declining produce prices and rising production costs. This move aims to boost food security and improve farmers’ livelihoods.

The Federal Government has launched several initiatives to support farmers, including the Nigerian Farmers Soil Health Scheme, which provides tailored soil recommendations to improve crop yields and reduce fertilizer waste. Another key initiative is the National Digital Farmers Registry, a platform that harmonizes farmer data and improves agricultural planning.

The government has also introduced various agricultural grants and loans, such as the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme, Agricultural Credit Guarantee Scheme, and National Agricultural Development Fund. These programs offer financial assistance to farmers, helping them access essential inputs and improve their productivity.

The Nigerian government is also collaborating with international organizations like the World Bank and International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) to support farmers. For example, the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project has supported over 10,000 farmers in Nasarawa State with loans, inputs, and climate-smart agriculture practices.

These efforts demonstrate the government’s commitment to enhancing food security and supporting farmers. The Senate has urged the Federal Government to introduce broad-based subsidies on fertilizers and other essential agricultural inputs, as well as establish a Guaranteed Off-take Programme to stabilize prices and ensure fair returns for farmers.