The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, in partnership with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and other key stakeholders, has initiated the Nigeria Farmers Soil Health Card Scheme (NFSHCS). This scheme is designed to enhance agricultural productivity and secure the country’s food future. The announcement was made in Abuja on Wednesday, following a Development and Implementation Workshop for the scheme.
During the workshop, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, highlighted the significant benefits of the NFSHCS, including reduced farming costs, increased agricultural productivity, and higher incomes for Nigerian farmers. Represented by Mr. Oshadiya Olanipekun, Director of the Department of Agricultural Land and Climate Change Management Services, Kyari emphasized the scheme’s role in promoting sustainable soil health management and the efficient use of fertilizers tailored to specific sites and crops.
Kyari stated, “Healthy soil is rich in organic matter and mineral resources, providing optimal support for plant growth and maximum productivity.” He noted that maintaining healthy soil is crucial for ensuring clean air, quality water, abundant crop yields, productive grazing lands, diverse wildlife, and beautiful landscapes.
The scheme includes the provision of online soil health cards accessible through a dedicated portal, allowing farmers to receive data on the fertility status of their soil. This information will guide them in applying appropriate soil management practices to enhance crop production.
Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Aliyu Abdullahi, added that the NFSHCS would streamline the process of soil health card issuance, ensuring timely access for farmers. The soil health cards will offer information on various soil health parameters, including macro and micronutrient levels, pH balance, and organic content.
Dr. Aduramigba Vincent, a representative from the Institute of Agriculture Research & Training, emphasized that the implementation of the NFSHCS would reduce input costs while boosting production and improving the livelihoods of Nigerian farmers.
The workshop was attended by representatives from various development partners, including GIZ, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the Institute of Agriculture Research & Training, among others.
