The Federal Government has begun the nationwide distribution of free agricultural inputs to farmers in a move aimed at lowering production costs, boosting yields and strengthening Nigeria’s food supply chain.
The initiative, launched by Abubakar Kyari, minister of agriculture and food security, is part of efforts by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to stimulate productivity across the agricultural value chain and stabilize food availability.
Speaking at the flag off ceremony in Lagos, Kyari said the intervention targets key constraints facing farmers including high input costs, low yields and limited access to improved farm materials.
The minister, represented by Marcus Olaniyi Ogunbiyi, permanent secretary in the ministry, said the programme involves the distribution of improved seeds, fertilizers and agrochemicals to cooperative farmers.
He explained that the scheme is designed to reduce production costs and enable year-round farming.
Kyari said the intervention also aligns with the economic reform agenda of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritizes food security and agricultural productivity.
According to him, farmers remain central to the nation’s food system and supporting them is critical to stabilizing supply and reducing pressure on food prices.
“Today’s distribution of improved seeds, fertilizers and agrochemicals is part of a broader government intervention aimed at reducing production costs, boosting yields and improving the livelihoods of farmers,” he said.
Kyari noted that Lagos plays a strategic role in Nigeria’s agricultural value chain, not only as a consumption hub but also as a growing centre for urban agriculture, aquaculture, poultry production and agribusiness innovation.
He said the federal government is also implementing additional interventions including mechanization services, climate smart agriculture programmes and capacity building initiatives to strengthen resilience in the sector.
Beyond input support, the ministry plans to expand irrigation, promote dry season farming and improve access to high yielding seed varieties to sustain output growth.
Officials say the programme is expected to support smallholder farmers and improve agricultural productivity if the inputs reach genuine beneficiaries and are properly utilized.
Also speaking, Abisola Ruth Olusanya, commissioner for agriculture and food systems in Lagos state, said the initiative complements the agricultural development strategy of the Lagos State Government.
Represented by Audu Emmanuel Fatai, permanent secretary in the ministry, she assured that farmers would utilize the inputs to boost production in the state.
Industry stakeholders at the event said sustained input support, improved monitoring and stronger extension services would be critical to ensuring that the intervention translates into higher yields and improved farmer incomes.
The programme also included the presentation of farm inputs to cooperative groups, including farmers with special needs, as well as the commissioning of a storage facility for agricultural supplies in the state, a statement by the ministry added
