GOVT BOOSTS AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTIVITY WITH FERTILIZER SUPPORT FOR DELTA FARMERS

Govt Boosts Agricultural Productivity with Fertilizer Support for Delta Farmers

By Ogo Ogo

In a renewed effort to strengthen food security and improve agricultural productivity across the country, the Federal Government, in collaboration with the Delta State Government, has distributed fertilizer to 5,040 registered farmers in Delta State. The intervention is aimed at increasing crop yields, supporting smallholder farmers, and promoting sustainable agricultural development.

The distribution exercise took place during the official flag-off of the South-South Zonal Farmers Input Support (FISH) Programme and the formal handover of 20,160 bags of fertilizer. The event was held at the premises of the Delta State Agricultural Procurement Agency (DAPA) in Ibusa, Oshimili North Local Government Area, and attracted government officials, agricultural stakeholders, extension workers, and farmers from different parts of the state.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Delta State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Hon. Val Arenyeka, Esq., said the programme was designed to address the major challenges confronting farmers, particularly smallholder farmers who often struggle to purchase quality farm inputs due to rising production costs.

According to the Commissioner, agriculture remains one of the strongest pillars of economic growth and social stability. He explained that the sector plays a vital role in creating employment opportunities, guaranteeing food availability, reducing poverty, generating wealth, supplying raw materials for industries, and strengthening the nation’s economy.

He emphasized that the Delta State Government remains committed to transforming the agricultural sector through deliberate investments and farmer-friendly policies. He noted that the government has continued to implement programmes that support farmers across the entire agricultural value chain, from land preparation and production to processing and marketing.

Arenyeka further stated that the state government is expanding access to agricultural land, encouraging commercial farming, promoting mechanized agriculture, and creating an enabling environment for agribusinesses to flourish. He added that special attention is being given to empowering youths and women to actively participate in agriculture, describing them as key drivers of future food production and economic development.

He urged the beneficiaries to make proper use of the fertilizer, stressing that the support would only achieve its intended objective if the inputs were applied to boost farm production. He expressed confidence that the intervention would lead to higher yields, improved food supply, and increased income for farming households across the state.

Earlier in his address, the Delta State Coordinator of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. John Onovwoke, who was represented by Mr. Kazeem Abdulazeez, described the programme as a clear demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to achieving national food security under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He said the initiative aligns with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places agriculture at the forefront of national development. According to him, improving access to quality farm inputs is one of the key strategies for increasing food production, reducing dependence on food imports, and improving the livelihoods of farmers.

Mr. Abdulazeez stressed that the fertilizer being distributed is a national asset intended solely for agricultural purposes.

He warned beneficiaries against selling or diverting the fertilizer, noting that it was provided specifically to increase crop production, improve harvests, and contribute to the nation’s food security objectives.

He called on farmers to use the fertilizer responsibly and in accordance with recommended agricultural practices to maximize its benefits. He also encouraged beneficiaries to remain committed to farming activities and continue supporting government efforts aimed at transforming the agricultural sector.

Several farmers who attended the event expressed appreciation to both the Federal and Delta State Governments for the intervention.

They noted that the rising cost of fertilizers and other farm inputs has been a major challenge in recent planting seasons and expressed optimism that the support would enable them to cultivate larger portions of their farmland and increase productivity.

The fertilizer distribution programme is expected to improve crop yields, strengthen food production, enhance farmers’ incomes, and contribute significantly to food sufficiency in Delta State and Nigeria as a whole.