Tinubu’s Commitment to Agriculture and Food Security
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to launching a 1.1 million tonne fertilizer initiative aimed at farmers by 2026. This project is designed to bolster food security and enhance agricultural productivity across Nigeria.
In a statement issued on June 18, Tinubu emphasized his administration’s proactive measures to support farmers, boost local production, and safeguard the agricultural sector against vulnerabilities associated with global supply disruptions.
Highlighting the challenges posed by ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, including the volatile Iran crisis, Tinubu acknowledged that such events have significantly impacted the global fertilizer market. Despite these disruptions, he remains optimistic about meeting supply targets essential for sustaining agricultural operations.
Strengthening Agricultural Resilience
Reflecting on commitments made during the 2023 presidential election, Tinubu noted his administration’s determination to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imports and foster a more resilient agricultural framework. He stated that targeted interventions throughout the fertilizer value chain are crucial for the success of these efforts.
According to the President, Nigeria is on track to distribute sufficient fertilizer to farmers nationwide in the current planting season. “We are on track to deliver a 1.1 million tonne fertilizer program this year, equivalent to approximately 22 million bags,” he confirmed, reinforcing that significant inputs have already been secured.
As of May 2026, Nigeria has successfully acquired over 449,000 tonnes of fertilizer inputs, translating to around 9 million bags, with 10 vessels either unloading or in transit. This achievement is attributed to reforms associated with the Presidential Fertilizer Initiative (PFI), which is undergoing restructuring under the Ministry of Finance.
Expanding Production Capacity
Under Tinubu’s leadership, Nigeria’s fertilizer sector has seen considerable expansion. With more than 90 compounding plants operational, the country now holds the largest compounding capacity in sub-Saharan Africa. This increase in production capability not only generates employment but also supports local manufacturing, enhancing the resilience of Nigeria’s food systems.
The government is committed to ensuring that fertilizers are readily available to farmers while maintaining adequate production levels. To facilitate this, the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) has introduced the Renewal Hope Farm Input Support Program (RH-FISP), which will distribute 515,720 bags of locally produced fertilizer to 128,930 smallholder farmers across 25 states and the Federal Capital Territory during the current planting season.
Innovative Agricultural Practices
In addition, NADF is championing modern agricultural practices through initiatives like digital extension services and harmonized fertilizer application guidelines. The strategic focus on key crops including rice, maize, cassava, and soybean ensures that support is targeted where it is most needed.
Tinubu disclosed that strategic contracting for fertilizer inputs is expected to yield significant savings of N61.58 billion in 2026, effectively keeping prices lower for farmers amid global economic challenges. His administration remains steadfast in its support for farmers, seeks to fortify agricultural value chains, revive local industries, and address long-term food inflation.
Looking to the Future of Fertilizer Production
Nigeria is home to Africa’s largest fertilizer production capacity, boasting about 16 million tons of annual capacity, while domestic consumption hovers around 2 million tons. Industry forecasts indicate a marked increase in production capabilities in the years ahead, largely driven by private sector investments.
A recent announcement from the Dangote Group revealed plans to more than double its fertilizer factory’s production capacity as part of a broader strategy to satisfy rising demand across the continent and enhance export capabilities. These plans gained impetus in April 2026, as the conglomerate unveiled a formidable five-year investment program worth approximately $40 billion aimed at scaling both its fertilizer and oil refining operations.
Ultimately, the group aims to quadruple fertilizer production from 3 million tonnes annually to 12 million tonnes, potentially positioning it as the world’s leading urea fertilizer producer.
