The Federal Government has committed to providing a 50% input subsidy for approximately 250,000 wheat farmers, supporting them in cultivating around 250,000 hectares during this year’s dry season.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, during the flag-off of the 2023/2024 dry season farming under the National Agricultural Growth Scheme and Agro-pocket Project in Kadume Village, Hadejia Local Government Area, Jigawa State.*
Senator Kyari emphasized that the government’s support for wheat farmers is anticipated to yield over 1.2 million tonnes of wheat during the dry season.
The initiative is part of the National Agricultural Growth Scheme and Agro-pocket Project, facilitated by a $134 million loan from the African Development Bank (AfDB).*
The minister highlighted the administration’s commitment, led by President Bola Tinubu, to enhance farmers’ capacity in cultivating key staples such as rice, maize, cassava, and wheat nationwide.
The objective is to achieve a minimum 20% increase in crop yield compared to the previous year.*
Senator Kyari stated, “Other selected staples are earmarked for similar, varied support, all aimed at significantly reducing food inflation, as well as Nigeria’s dependence on foreign imports while increasing domestic consumption.”
The initiative aligns with broader efforts to bolster food security and promote self-sufficiency in key agricultural commodities.*
