As Nigeria continues its journey toward economic recovery, food sufficiency, and sustainable agricultural growth, I, Hon. Oluwatobi John Ogunbayo (OJO), a proud progressive and aspirant for the House of Representatives representing Ibadan North-West/Ibadan South-West Federal Constituency, extend my heartfelt commendation to the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the bold and strategic interventions being implemented to safeguard Nigeria's food security.
At a time when many nations across the world are grappling with disruptions in agricultural supply chains, rising production costs, and food inflation, Nigeria faced the real possibility of a fertiliser crisis. Global uncertainties, including tensions in the Middle East and increasing input costs, threatened the availability and affordability of fertiliser for millions of farmers.
Such a situation could have resulted in reduced agricultural productivity, lower harvests, increased food prices, and greater hardship for ordinary Nigerians.
However, under the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Renewed Hope Agenda, proactive measures were taken to avert this looming challenge.
Through the revitalized Presidential Fertilizer Initiative (PFI), now restructured under the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), remarkable milestones have been achieved:
- Over 449,000 metric tonnes of fertiliser inputs, equivalent to approximately 9 million bags, have been secured for blending plants nationwide.
- Ten vessels carrying critical inputs have either discharged their cargo or are currently in transit.
- A production target of 1.1 million metric tonnes has been set for 2026.
- An estimated 22 million bags of fertiliser are expected to be produced this year.
- Strategic contracting arrangements have generated savings of approximately ₦61.58 billion.
- More than 90 fertiliser blending plants across Nigeria have been protected and sustained, preserving Nigeria's position as the largest fertiliser blending hub in Sub-Saharan Africa.
In addition, the Renewed Hope Farm Input Support Programme (RHFISP), implemented through the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), is ensuring that locally produced fertilisers reach the farmers who need them most.
The programme is currently delivering:
- 515,720 bags of fertiliser for immediate distribution.
- Support for 128,930 smallholder farmers nationwide.
- Coverage across 25 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
- Approximately 5,040 farmers benefiting per participating state.
- Distribution of 20,160 bags per participating state.
- Strategic support for key food crops including rice, maize, cassava, and soybean.
These interventions demonstrate that food security is not merely a slogan but a practical policy objective being pursued with determination and measurable results.
As someone seeking the mandate of the good people of Ibadan North-West and Ibadan South-West Federal Constituency, I strongly believe that agriculture remains one of the most effective pathways to economic empowerment, youth employment, poverty reduction, and national prosperity.
Our farmers are the backbone of our economy. When they have access to affordable inputs, modern farming techniques, financing opportunities, and functional markets, the entire nation benefits.
This is why I remain committed to supporting policies and legislative initiatives that will:
- Strengthen agricultural value chains.
- Expand access to farm inputs and mechanized farming.
- Promote food security and rural development.
- Empower youths and women in agribusiness.
- Encourage local production and economic self-sufficiency.
- Improve infrastructure that supports agricultural growth and market access.
The progress recorded through the Presidential Fertilizer Initiative and the Renewed Hope Farm Input Support Programme is a clear indication that Nigeria is moving in the right direction.
As we continue to build a stronger and more prosperous nation, I urge our farmers, stakeholders, and citizens to remain hopeful and supportive of policies that prioritize productivity, economic growth, and national development.
Together, we can build a food-secure Nigeria where every family has access to affordable food and every farmer has the opportunity to thrive.
The Renewed Hope Agenda is yielding results, and with sustained commitment, greater achievements lie ahead.
A promise made. A promise being fulfilled.
May God continue to bless our farmers, our constituency, Oyo State, and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Hon. Oluwatobi John Ogunbayo (OJO)
Aspirant, House of Representatives
Ibadan North-West/Ibadan South-West Federal Constituency
Advocate for Grassroots Development, Youth Empowerment, Food Security, and Sustainable Progress
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