Farmers seek fertiliser subsidy, stronger security measures

Farmers under the aegis of the Cocoa and Plantain Farmers Association of Nigeria have urged the Federal Government to subsidise fertiliser and intensify efforts to tackle insecurity in farming communities.

The National President of CPFAN, Ayodele Ojo, made the appeal on Thursday during a stakeholders’ seminar on innovative fertiliser technology organised by the association in Akure, Ondo State.

Ojo said rising fertiliser costs and worsening insecurity were threatening agricultural productivity and food security across the country.

According to him, kidnappings, killings and other attacks have forced many farmers to abandon their farms, contributing to food shortages and rising food prices.

“As we speak of hope, we must also confront the harsh reality of insecurity. Across Nigeria, farmers live in fear. Kidnappings, killings, and violence have driven many away from their farms. This crisis threatens not only our livelihoods but the very foundation of our food security.
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“We cannot ignore this challenge. Without security, there can be no farming. Without farming, there can be no food. And without food, there can be no peace. We call upon the government to intensify efforts to secure our rural communities, to protect our farmers, and to restore confidence in the agricultural sector,” he said.

He also appealed to the Federal Government to make fertilisers more affordable for farmers through subsidy programmes.

The farmers’ leader said improved access to fertiliser would enhance crop yields, improve soil fertility and strengthen food security.

“For this fertiliser to reach its full potential, we need the support of our government. We appeal to the Honourable Minister to include floral fertiliser in the national procurement program. We ask that it be subsidised and distributed widely—not only to CPFAN members but to farmers across Nigeria.

“‎Government’s support will ensure that this fertiliser is not a luxury for the few but a lifeline for the many. It will empower smallholder farmers, who form the backbone of our agricultural sector. It will enable them to adopt modern practices, increase productivity, and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s food security agenda,” he added.

Ojo added that cocoa farmers would benefit from improved yields and better-quality produce, which could enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness in the international cocoa market.

Speaking on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr Marcus Ogunbiyi, Adamolekun Ebenezer reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

He described organic fertilisers as important tools for improving productivity, soil health and food security.

The Ondo State Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, Olaye Akinola, also reiterated the state’s commitment to supporting innovations aimed at improving agricultural productivity and food security.