Federal Capital Territory Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has started the distribution of 900 metric tonnes of fertilizers to farmers in the FCT.
This fertilizer, delivered in 30 trucks, was donated by the Central Bank of Nigeria through the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.
At the distribution ceremony in Abuja, Dr. Mahmoud said the fertilizers are part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s strategy to address global food shortages. “The event is a reflection of President Tinubu’s vision to tackle the global food crisis,” she stated.
Mahmoud acknowledged the high cost of food and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving the situation. She said, “In the past two months, we have taken several steps to boost food production, including working with the World Bank and Islamic Development Bank to provide essential agricultural inputs.”
She also mentioned that the FCT Administration followed CBN’s distribution guidelines and set up a committee to ensure the fertilizers reach the right farmers. “We have adhered to all guidelines and set up a committee to plan and execute the distribution,” she added.
The minister encouraged FCT residents, especially the youth, to explore agriculture and utilize the fertile land available in the territory. She said, “I urge our youth to take advantage of the fertile land in the FCT and get involved in agriculture, no matter how small.”
Hon. Lawan Kolo Geidam, Mandate Secretary of the Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, highlighted the importance of the CBN’s donation. “The donation is a timely response to the global food crisis worsened by climate change, low production, and high prices,” he said. He also praised President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on agricultural support.
“We hope this significant fertilizer supply will lead to a great harvest this year, improving food availability, nutrition, and economic growth in the FCT,” Geidam added.
Grace Adayilo, Permanent Secretary of the Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, emphasized the importance of agriculture for food and economic stability. “We will ensure the fertilizers reach genuine farmers. Those receiving the fertilizers today have been certified by our committee,” Adayilo assured.
She also promised continued support and training for extension agents across the FCT to boost agricultural productivity.
