The Federal Government has set a target to generate N1.25 trillion from wheat production in 2025, as part of its ongoing National Agricultural Growth Scheme and Agro-pocket Project. This initiative aims to enhance food security by distributing subsidized agricultural inputs to registered farmers across the country.
Ishaku Buba, the National Project Coordinator of NAGS-AP, revealed this goal on Wednesday in Abuja during a workshop titled “Building Partnerships with the Media for Food Security.” He shared that the wheat production program for the 2024/2025 dry season has already been launched across 16 wheat-producing states, with a goal of reaching 280,000 farmers. To date, over 279,000 farmers have been reached, with an estimated yield of 837,891 metric tons.
Buba explained that the initiative is expected to significantly boost wheat production, with projected revenue surpassing N1.25 trillion. The program utilizes a comprehensive distribution model, featuring 409 redemption centers and a network of agro-dealers in the targeted states. As of now, 647,500 farmers have registered on the platform, and more than 628,000 have received agricultural inputs for crops such as wheat and rice.
The program is expanding further, with more farmers set to benefit from support in both the dry and wet seasons across Nigeria. “We are on track to meet our targets, and the NAGS-AP framework, supported by ICT, will ensure smooth implementation and accountability,” Buba said.
The initiative has already shown positive results in the 2023/2024 dry season, achieving nearly a 97% success rate and providing agricultural support to over 118,000 farmers in 15 states. “The impact has been promising, and we are now preparing for the next phase of wheat production,” Buba added.
Marcus Ogunbiyi, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, emphasized the critical role of a strong partnership between the Ministry and the media in achieving food security.
He highlighted that the ministry’s mandate aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on agricultural development, improving food security, creating jobs, and enhancing the livelihoods of farmers.
The Director of the Department of Information, Joel Oruché also underscored the importance of enhanced collaboration, particularly in light of the current administration’s emphasis on food security.
