Victoria Mbangwa
In a bid to tackle the growing challenge of soil degradation and boost sustainable agricultural productivity, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS) has reaffirmed its commitment to the Nigerian Farmers’ Soil Health Card Scheme (NFSHCS).
The scheme, which aims to provide science-based soil management solutions, was the focus of a final validation workshop recently held in Abuja.
The workshop brought together key stakeholders, including policymakers, researchers, extension agents, and development partners, to validate the Soil Health Card document and align it with national policies on food security and environmental sustainability.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, CON, highlighted the scheme’s role in shifting Nigerian agriculture from traditional to modern, data-driven practices.
He stressed that indiscriminate fertilizer use has contributed to soil degradation, emphasizing the need for a structured soil health management system.
“NFSHCS signifies a shift from traditional to modern agricultural practices, it represents a significant step forward in our efforts to move away from indiscriminate fertilizer use, promote sustainable farming, boost productivity, and generate employment opportunities, especially for youths, women, and individuals with disabilities.
“The scheme is designed to tackle soil health challenges by providing science-based insights to various stakeholders to include; farmers, agro-processors, extension agents, researchers, marketers, and policymakers.”
Abdullahi stated.
A significant aspect of the initiative is the establishment of soil testing laboratories in all 774 Local Government Areas across Nigeria. The project will also set up a Soil Information System to create a robust database for effective planning and policy formulation.
Director of Agricultural Land and Climate Change Management Services, Mr. Olanipekun Oshadiya, described the validated document as a critical tool for promoting sustainable farming practices, improving soil fertility, and ensuring long-term food security. He urged stakeholders to translate the workshop’s recommendations into tangible actions that would benefit farmers and the environment.
The scheme is being supported by international development partners, including Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL), the World Bank, Soil Values, and the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA).
Dr. Micheal Adegboye, the consultant for NFSHCS, provided an update on the scheme’s progress, explaining that farmers would receive personalized insights into their soil health, along with tailored recommendations for fertilizer application and land management.
The event also featured paper presentations from development partners, focusing on innovative approaches to soil health and climate resilience. Representatives from ACReSAL, GIZ, Soil Value, AGRA, and SWOFON were among the key attendees.
With soil degradation posing a serious threat to agricultural productivity, the Nigerian Farmers’ Soil Health Card Scheme is expected to play a crucial role in achieving President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda on food security and climate resilience.
