President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially launched the Nigerian Farmers Soil Health Scheme (NFSHS), a major initiative aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity, reducing fertilizer wastage, and ensuring sustainable food security across Nigeria. The scheme was inaugurated on October 15, 2025, under the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, with participation from government officials, farmer associations, development partners, and representatives of the National Assembly.
The NFSHS introduces a data-driven approach to farming by establishing 774 soil testing laboratories across all local government areas in Nigeria. These laboratories will provide farmers with personalized soil health cards indicating nutrient levels, pH balance, and tailored fertilizer recommendations. Additionally, the Nigeria Soil Information System (NiSIS) has been developed to consolidate soil data, enabling informed decision-making and policy formulation.
The scheme is expected to significantly increase crop yields, with rice, maize, and wheat production projected to double in some areas. By optimizing fertilizer use, it also aims to reduce environmental pollution, enhance food safety, and promote climate-resilient farming. Operating on a Public-Private Partnership model, the program collaborates with research institutions, farmer groups, and international partners such as GIZ, the World Bank’s ACReSAL Project, and the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, reflecting the government’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s agricultural sector through innovation and inclusive growth.
