Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has approved a major fertiliser subsidy, reducing the price of a 50kg bag to ₦20,000 as government distributes 500 truckloads to farmers.
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| Governor Caleb Mutfwang unveiling fertiliser bags for distribution to farmers. |
JOS, PLATEAU STATE – July 8, 2026
The Plateau State Government has launched one of its largest agricultural support programmes in recent years, approving the distribution of 500 truckloads of fertiliser to farmers at a heavily subsidised rate as part of efforts to boost food production and strengthen food security.
Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang announced that farmers across the state will purchase a 50-kilogram bag of fertiliser for ₦20,000, significantly below the prevailing market price, to ease the burden on farmers during the current planting season.
The initiative comes as farmers across Plateau intensify cultivation amid growing concerns over rising production costs, insecurity in some farming communities and the impact of inflation on agricultural inputs.
Government officials say the intervention is designed to increase crop yields, improve farmers' incomes and support the state's position as one of Nigeria's leading agricultural producers.
Agriculture remains the backbone of Plateau State's economy, providing livelihoods for thousands of households and contributing significantly to food supply across Nigeria.
However, the sharp increase in the prices of fertiliser, improved seeds and other farm inputs has made cultivation increasingly difficult for many smallholder farmers.
By reducing the selling price of fertiliser to ₦20,000 per bag, the government hopes more farmers will have access to the inputs needed to improve productivity.
Officials believe the subsidy will encourage increased cultivation during the current farming season while helping farmers reduce production costs.
The state government disclosed that about 500 truckloads of fertiliser have been procured for distribution across Plateau's 17 local government areas.
Distribution is expected to be coordinated through relevant government agencies to ensure farmers in both urban and rural communities benefit from the programme.
Authorities said measures are also being put in place to minimise diversion and ensure the fertiliser reaches genuine farmers rather than middlemen.
Farmer associations and community leaders are expected to work with government officials to facilitate transparent distribution throughout the exercise.
The subsidy has been welcomed by many farmers, who say the rising cost of farm inputs has reduced their ability to cultivate larger portions of land.
Agricultural experts note that timely access to fertiliser remains critical to improving yields of maize, potatoes, vegetables, rice and other crops widely cultivated across Plateau State.
They believe the intervention could contribute significantly to food security if distribution is transparent and reaches intended beneficiaries before the peak growing period.
However, stakeholders have urged the government to complement the fertiliser programme with improved rural roads, irrigation support, extension services and enhanced security for farming communities.
The fertiliser programme aligns with broader efforts by the Plateau State Government to revitalise agriculture and strengthen rural economies.
With food inflation continuing to affect households across Nigeria, increased agricultural productivity is expected to play an important role in stabilising food prices and improving livelihoods.
Government officials expressed optimism that the intervention would increase harvests during the current farming season and contribute to sustainable economic development.
Prime Brief Media will continue monitoring the implementation of the fertiliser distribution programme and provide updates as distribution begins across the state.
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