The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, in partnership with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and other key stakeholders, has developed a strategy to implement the Nigeria Farmers Soil Health Card Scheme (NFSHCS).
This initiative aims to enhance agricultural productivity and ensure food security across the nation.
During the Nigeria Farmers’ Soil Health Card Scheme Development and Implementation Workshop held recently in Abuja, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, represented by the director of agricultural land and climate change management services, Oshadiya Olanipekun, emphasised the scheme’s potential to reduce farming costs, increase productivity and boost the income of Nigerian farmers.
Sen. Kyari highlighted that the NFSHCS would promote sustainable soil health management practices tailored to specific sites and crops. It would also facilitate the efficient application of fertilizers. “Healthy soil is rich in organic matter and minerals, providing optimal support for plant growth and maximum productivity,” he stated. Kyari further explained that maintaining soil health is crucial for ensuring clean air, quality water, high crop yields, productive grazing lands, diverse wildlife, and beautiful landscapes.
The minister also revealed that the NFSHCS would enable farmers to receive soil health cards online through dedicated portals. These cards will include data on soil fertility, supported by soil testing facilities. This information will empower farmers with the knowledge needed to manage their soil resources effectively.
Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Aliyu Abdullahi remarked that the scheme would streamline the process of collecting and issuing Soil Health Cards (SHCs), reducing unnecessary delays. He added that the SHCs would provide information on soil health based on 12 parameters, including macro and micronutrient levels, pH levels, and organic content.
A representative from the Institute of Agriculture Research & Training (IAR&T), Dr. Aduramigba Vincent noted that the scheme’s implementation would reduce input costs, increase agricultural production, and improve the livelihoods of Nigerian farmers.
A statement by the ministry’s Director of Information signed by Ikemefuna Ezeaja confirmed that representatives from the ministry’s development partners, including GIZ, the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), IAR&T, among others, were in attendance.
