Nigeria rolls out 10 million‑bag fertiliser distribution with guaranteed price scheme

The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched a massive distribution of more than 10 million bags of fertiliser as part of the Renewed Hope Smallholder Support and Value Chain Fund. The programme, unveiled by Agriculture Minister Senator Abubakar Kyari in Zaria, Kaduna State, also introduces a Guaranteed Minimum Price (GMP) model to protect over two million smallholder farmers from market volatility and to encourage higher grain production.

Under the GMP, participating farmers are linked to farmer‑aggregation companies, with Arzikin Noma leading the pilot. These aggregators will provide certified seeds, fertiliser, extension services and will purchase the harvested produce at a government‑approved floor price. One‑third of the beneficiaries are women. The initiative aims to raise Nigeria’s annual grain output from the current 11 million tonnes to about 25 million tonnes, reducing food inflation and enhancing food security.

Financing is provided through the Bank of Agriculture’s single‑digit, nine‑percent loan facility, ensuring that inputs are not grants but affordable credit. The programme also includes plans for irrigation financing and aims to eventually reach five million farmers, expanding domestic production and creating jobs across the agricultural value chain.