President Bola Tinubu has mandated a significant reduction of 93 per cent in the cost of agricultural inputs to bolster food security in the nation.
Senior Special Adviser to the President on Food Security, Yejide Ogundipe, revealed this yesterday at the inauguration of state coordinators for the Nigerian Women for Agricultural Progress (NWAP) and the commemoration of International Women’s Day (IWD) in Abuja.
Highlighting the government’s dedication to supporting farmers by subsidizing vital agricultural inputs by 93 per cent, Ogundipe attributed the food crisis gripping the country to banditry.
“Last year, the government provided a 50 per cent subsidy to farmers, but some were unable to afford even that. Now, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security is offering these inputs to farmers at a minimal cost, with 93 per cent of the expense covered by the government.
“For example, if a bag of fertilizer costs N100, farmers will only need to pay N7 while the government covers N93. We are deeply committed to this initiative, as is the President. We, as leaders, convene daily to strategize on reducing food costs,” she explained.
The Presidential aide stated that the Tinubu administration is determined to enhance farmers’ capacity to cultivate key staples like rice, maize, cassava, and wheat nationwide.
Underlining the importance of empowering more women in the agricultural sector, she asserted that “the time has come for women to claim their rightful place” in the industry.
She continued, “The President is currently advocating for agriculture, and I know he is equally passionate about women in business, agriculture, and other sectors. Food security is a priority for him. Last year, he declared a state of emergency on food security due to the United Nations’ projection that by 2024, approximately 23 million Nigerians would face hunger. No woman wants her family to go hungry. He has expanded access to loans.
“Food insecurity is a global issue, not exclusive to Nigeria. The primary challenge we face is banditry. Farmers are unable to tend to their fields. Those who attempt to farm are threatened, assaulted, and even killed. However, this situation has significantly improved as security agencies are taking action.”
Professor of Agricultural Economics at the Federal University of Technology (FUT), Minna, Faith Ibrahim, stressed the importance of prioritizing inclusive agriculture for women, noting that women farmers contribute 70 to 80 per cent of Nigeria’s food production.
Calling for the creation of a supportive environment for women farmers and improved food security, the professor advocated for low-interest loans for women farmers, highlighting the potential for increased productivity through gender-friendly policy frameworks.
National Coordinator of NWAP, Omolara Svensson, affirmed the organization’s dedication to advancing agribusiness in Africa to improve food security, accessibility, and affordability.
