Rural farmers across various communities in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have raised alarm over delays in accessing subsidised agricultural inputs as the rainy season begins. Many, already planting crops like maize and melon, complain of poor support from the FCT Administration, citing unaffordable fertilizer prices and lack of improved seeds, tractors, and chemicals.
Farmers from Gwagwalada, Kuje, Kwali, and Abaji area councils say they are forced to rely on expensive alternatives from markets or neighboring states. They accuse the government of neglecting smallholder farmers, warning that if urgent interventions are not made, the nation may face another food crisis.
The Mandate Secretary of FCT Agriculture, Abdullahi Ango, has, however, assured that the administration is working to distribute inputs and support rural farming ahead of the season’s peak. Plans are underway to improve extension services and encourage private sector investment in agribusiness.
