FCTA Distributes 900 Metric Tonnes of Fertilizer to Boost Food Production
In a move to address the global challenge of food shortages, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has commenced the distribution of 900 metric tonnes of fertilizer free to farmers in the territory. The input, donated by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), was received through the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.
At the inauguration of the exercise in Abuja, FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, assured that the Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat has fully adhered to the distribution guidelines outlined by the CBN, which includes setting up a broad-based ad-hoc committee to strategise and come up with distribution plans.
The minister noted that while agricultural inputs are vital for enhancing production, knowledge of good agronomic practices is equally essential, which is why the FCT Administration has consistently invested in knowledge acquisition over the years. She also emphasized the commitment of the administration to the welfare and prosperity of the people of Abuja.
The distribution committee, composed of farmers, civil organizations, faith-based organizations, Area Council authorities, traditional institutions, and government agencies, is working to ensure that the fertilizers reach the intended beneficiaries – dedicated and hardworking farmers in the FCT.
Lawan Geidam, Mandate Secretary, Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, reiterated that the intervention reaffirms the commitment of President Bola Tinubu to revitalise the agricultural sector. He expressed optimism that the fertilizers will yield a remarkable outcome, culminating in a bumper harvest this year, and enhancing food availability, improved nutrition, economic growth, and overall well-being of FCT residents.
Ifraimu Dauda, Chairman, All Farmers Association of Nigeria, FCT Chapter, commended the FCTA and CBN for the gesture. He emphasized the importance of fertilizer in agricultural production and advised the government to be wary of social media farmers and deal directly with the real farmers in communities. He also urged the government to support irrigation farming to strengthen dry season farming in the FCT.
The permanent secretary of the secretariat, Grace Adayilo, revealed that the secretariat has put measures in place to ensure that the fertilizer does not end up in the market. Mrs. Adayilo specifically stated that any fertilizer that ends up in the market would be punished by the “Holy Ghost Fire”.
This initiative is part of the FCTA’s pro-active measures to address the high cost of food items and enhance food production in the territory. The distribution exercise is expected to boost agricultural production and ensure a bumper harvest in the FCT.
