FG Set To Withdraw Subsidy On Another Major Product

The removal of subsidy in Nigeria is
set to be extended to the agricultural
sector as announced by a federal
minister.
The Minister of Agriculture and
Rural Development, Mr Audu
Ogbeh, has announced plans by the
Federal Government to withdraw
subsidy for fertiliser procurement
in Nigeria.
The Minister explained on
Thursday at a forum in Abuja,
Nigeria’s capital that the
government’s decision would
ensure the availability of fertiliser
to farmers.
He said there were plans to ensure
that farmers access loans at single
digit rates to meet the growing
demands for agricultural produce.
The Director of USAID Nigeria,
Michael Harvey, and Director of
IFDC West and North African
Division, Robert Groot, suggested
the increased lending to farmers.
They also called on the government
to ensure that members of the
private sector were involved in the
distribution of fertiliser.
The Speakers noted that this would
provide income for farmers and
ensure food security for all.
Besides all of these suggestions,
leaders in the West African region
are also expected to back all
policies that affects fertilizer
production and distribution with
action.