Wike Flags Off Distribution of 550 Metric Tonnes of Subsidised Fertilisers to Abuja Farmers

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has officially commenced the distribution of 550 metric tonnes of assorted fertilisers at a 50 percent subsidised rate to farmers across the six area councils of Abuja.

The programme, which was launched in Abuja on Thursday, is a government-backed initiative designed to strengthen food production, lower farming costs, stabilise prices, and enhance food security in the FCT.

During the flag-off ceremony, Wike, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Chidi Amadi, noted that the exercise reflects the administration’s commitment to agricultural growth and the overall welfare of residents.

“This intervention reflects our strong commitment to food security, agricultural transformation, and the well-being of our people. As emphasised by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), food insecurity continues to undermine dignity, peace, and stability worldwide,” Wike said.

He further explained that the programme aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, and it has now been institutionalised as an annual support scheme to reduce farmers’ production costs while increasing yield. The timing, according to the minister, was deliberate as it coincides with the planting season, ensuring that farmers have access to inputs at the critical time they are most needed.

Subsidised Fertilisers for FCT Farmers

The fertilisers being distributed include:

• Conventional NPK
• Granular Urea
• NPK Gel
• Urea Gel

Farmers will receive these at half the prevailing market price. To maintain transparency, Wike stressed that monitoring systems have been put in place to prevent diversion and to guarantee that only genuine farmers benefit directly.

Strategic Partnerships for Agricultural Growth

Recognising that fertilisers alone cannot fully address the challenges facing the agricultural sector, Wike highlighted ongoing collaborations with international and local organisations such as:

• International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA)
• Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)
• Leventis Foundation
• The World Bank

These partnerships are aimed at capacity building, land reclamation, adoption of modern farming practices, and improving farmers’ livelihoods.

“Through these collaborations, we are reviving agricultural productivity, supporting sustainable livelihoods, and rehabilitating degraded lands. This administration is fully committed to building a thriving, secure, and inclusive city for every resident of the FCT,” Wike added.

Additional Farming Equipment Support

In addition to the fertilisers, the Mandate Secretary of the Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, Ango Abdullahi, announced that 3,500 knapsack sprayers will also be distributed to farmers. He expressed appreciation to the minister for his continued backing of agricultural development.

Abdullahi emphasised that Abuja’s rapidly expanding population has increased the demand for food, making it necessary to prioritise agricultural revitalisation. He further stated that the Secretariat remains fully aligned with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places agriculture at the centre of economic recovery and food sufficiency.