The Ministry of Agriculture has recorded a significant milestone in its ambitious National Agricultural Growth Scheme and Agro-Pocket (NAGS-AP) program, empowering 200,348 wheat farmers with input subsidies during the 2024 dry season. This achievement brings the initiative closer to its target of reaching 280,000 farmers, underscoring its transformative impact on Nigeria’s wheat production.
The Honourable Minister of Agriculture, Abubakar Kyari, praised the program’s success, emphasizing its ability to provide farmers with essential inputs at subsidized rates. Through NAGS-AP, farmers across 16 wheat-producing states have accessed a 50% input subsidy, enabling them to boost productivity and improve livelihoods.
The program operates across 409 irrigation and special farming clusters, including Cross River State, which made history as the first southern state to participate. The subsidy package has been hailed as a game-changer for agriculture, offering farmers:
– Seeds at just 25% of the cost, with the government covering 75%.
– Fertilizers at half price, with the government paying 50%.
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Farmers redeem these inputs in real time, with a streamlined process ensuring a smooth and secure experience. Each redemption center is staffed with security personnel to maintain order and helpline representatives to provide on-the-spot assistance.
Minister Kyari urged farmers to take full advantage of the program, which is designed to bolster wheat yields and secure Nigeria’s position as a leader in wheat production. “This is a pivotal moment for our nation’s agricultural sector. The NAGS-AP initiative is not just about subsidies; it’s about empowering our farmers, transforming rural communities, and ensuring food security for future generations,” he stated.
As the program continues its rollout, the Ministry remains committed to reaching its goal of 280,000 farmers, cementing the initiative’s role as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s agricultural growth strategy. With real-time updates and a focus on transparency, NAGS-AP is set to revolutionize wheat farming and drive sustainable development across the country.
