FG targets ₦160bn from 2025/2026 wheat production

The Federal Government says it is targeting an output value of about ₦160 billion from wheat production in the 2025/2026 dry season as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s food sovereignty and reduce import dependence.

Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, revealed this during the flag-off of subsidised input distribution for the 2025/2026 wheat programme under the National Agricultural Growth and Agro-Pocket Project (NAGS-AP) in Jere LGA, Borno State.

Kyari said 40,000 hectares have been earmarked for this season, with 80,000 registered farmers expected to participate nationwide. Borno State accounts for 3,000 hectares, with 6,000 farmers registered.

Reviewing past performance, the minister said 107,429 farmers participated in the 2023/2024 dry season, producing wheat worth ₦474.6 billion, while 279,297 farmers took part in the 2024/2025 season, achieving output valued at ₦893.7 billion.

He said the programme will deploy extension agents to guide farmers and ensure they adopt modern agronomic practices.

Fertiliser and seed quality control officers will also monitor the distribution of certified inputs to guarantee higher yields.

Kyari noted that wheat production under NAGS-AP now spans 16 states, including Cross River, which joined last year, marking the crop’s expansion into the southern region.

He emphasised that the programme is structured to include women and young people, giving them fair access to training and agricultural opportunities.

Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, commended the initiative, saying President Tinubu’s commitment to food security is driving nationwide progress in irrigation and all-season farming.

He reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to support farmers with improved seeds, fertilisers, machinery, and other essential inputs.

Speaking for the beneficiaries, Alhaji Haruna Umaru pledged that farmers would increase production in line with the president’s agricultural vision.

The event concluded with the distribution of subsidised inputs to smallholder farmers.