Nigeria has saved ₦61.58 billion through strategic fertiliser procurement while expanding support to over 128,000 farmers under the Renewed Hope food security programme
Tinubu: Nigeria Saved ₦61.58bn Through Fertiliser Reforms, Supports 128,930 Farmers
President Bola Tinubu has revealed that Nigeria saved ₦61.58 billion through strategic fertiliser procurement measures introduced by his administration, while expanding support to thousands of farmers as part of efforts to strengthen food security and shield the agricultural sector from global supply disruptions.
The President said his government acted swiftly to protect Nigeria from the impact of rising fertiliser costs and shortages triggered by disruptions in global supply chains and conflicts in parts of the world, insisting that the administration is fulfilling its commitment to make food security a cornerstone of the Renewed Hope agenda.
“When we came into office, we made a promise to Nigerians that food security would be a major pillar of our Renewed Hope agenda,” Tinubu said. “We promised to support our farmers, strengthen local production, reduce dependence on imports, and build an agricultural system strong enough to withstand shocks from beyond our borders. That promise is being kept.”
According to the President, the Federal Government moved early through the Presidential Fertiliser Initiative (PFI), which has now been restructured under the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), to secure critical raw materials and protect Nigeria’s fertiliser blending industry from the worst effects of global market volatility.
Tinubu noted that disruptions in global supply chains and the escalating costs of fertiliser inputs posed serious threats to agricultural productivity worldwide, with many countries facing the prospect of shortages, rising production costs and higher food prices.
“I am pleased to inform you that we moved early,” the President said. “Through the Presidential Fertiliser Initiative (PFI), now restructured under MOFI, we strengthened procurement, secured critical raw materials, signed forward agreements, improved coordination across the value chain, and protected Nigeria’s local fertiliser blending industry from the worst effects of global market disruption.”
He disclosed that as of May 2026, Nigeria had secured more than 449,000 metric tonnes of fertiliser inputs—equivalent to about nine million bags—with 10 vessels either already discharged or currently in transit. The country, he added, remains on track to deliver a 1.1 million metric tonne fertiliser programme this year, representing roughly 22 million bags.
“Despite the global shocks, strategic contracting for key inputs also generated ₦61.58 billion in savings in 2026 alone, helping to keep fertiliser more affordable for farmers,” Tinubu said.
The President further highlighted the growth of local fertiliser production, revealing that Nigeria now boasts more than 90 operational fertiliser blending plants, the largest blending capacity in Sub-Saharan Africa.
“This capacity means jobs, local production, industrial growth, and greater resilience for our food system,” he said.
Tinubu stressed, however, that increasing fertiliser supply would only be meaningful if farmers can access the products when they need them.
“However, securing inputs and keeping blending plants active and producing is only the first step. The real test is immediate access. Fertiliser must reach the farmers who need it, when they need it,” he stated.
To address this challenge, the administration launched the Renewed Hope Farm Input Support Programme (RH-FISP) through the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF). Under the initiative, 515,720 bags of locally produced fertiliser are being distributed to 128,930 smallholder farmers across 25 states and the Federal Capital Territory during the current planting season.
The President also disclosed that the NADF is promoting modern farming practices through digital extension services, harmonised fertiliser application guidance and targeted support for priority crops such as rice, maize, cassava and soybean.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to agricultural development, Tinubu said the government would continue to pursue practical measures aimed at boosting productivity, supporting local industry and reducing pressure on food prices.
“Our administration will not relent on its efforts to protect farmers, raise productivity, strengthen the agricultural value chain, support local industry, and ease pressure on food prices over time,” the President assured. “This is the meaning of promise made, promise kept.”
He added: “We will continue to take practical steps to strengthen Nigerian agriculture and protect food security for every Nigerian.”
