Fertiliser, labour costs put Niger irrigation farmers on edge

Irrigation farmers in Niger State are facing an uphill battle as the soaring costs of fertilizers, labour, and fuel make dry-season farming increasingly unsustainable. Despite the state’s vast agricultural potential, many small-scale farmers find it difficult to access government-backed support such as subsidized fertilizers, tractors, and irrigation infrastructure.

The inability to utilize available water bodies due to a lack of irrigation facilities further compounds the problem, leaving farmers to rely on costly alternatives like fuel-powered pumps. With reduced affordability of key inputs, stakeholders in the agri-food sector warn that food security remains at risk.

A market survey across major farming communities in Niger State indicates that many farmers have drastically reduced their cultivation areas. The current fertilizer price of ₦46,000 per bag has forced farmers to cut down on the quantity applied, directly impacting yields. The high cost of farm labor—now at ₦3,000 for three hours—has also discouraged expansion, as many young workers migrate to urban areas for better opportunities.

The implications are dire: farmers predict lower rice production, increased financial strain, and rising food prices across local markets. As Niger State is a key player in Nigeria’s rice value chain, these challenges highlight broader systemic issues in the country’s agricultural sector.
Source: DailyTrrust

Expert Review for Agri-Food Stakeholders

1. Policy Gaps & Government Interventions: The lack of subsidized inputs contradicts government policies on food security. Strategic intervention is needed to support dry-season farming.
   Irrigation infrastructure development should be prioritized to reduce dependence on costly fuel-powered pumping systems.
2. Market and Economic Implications: The decline in rice production will increase local rice prices, reducing affordability for consumers.
   The ongoing economic strain on smallholder farmers could lead to a reduction in rural livelihoods, further increasing migration to cities.
3. Labour Shortages and Mechanization Needs: Rising labour costs highlight an urgent need for agriculture mechanization programs that provide affordable tractor services.
   Investment in youth engagement programs can help reverse rural-to-urban migration trends.
4. Private Sector & Agribusiness Opportunities:
   Agribusinesses can explore alternative fertilizer production (organic compost, bio-fertilizers) to provide more affordable options for farmers.
   Financial institutions should expand access to credit for irrigation farmers to ease the burden of high input costs.

Recommendations for Stakeholders

1. Government & Policymakers: Implement targeted subsidy programs for fertilizers and fuel for irrigation farmers.
   Strengthen irrigation infrastructure to reduce dependence on costly water-pumping solutions.
   Promote mechanization access through tractor-sharing cooperatives and financial incentives.
2. Private Sector & Agri-Tech Companies: Develop precision agriculture solutions to optimize fertilizer use and minimize waste.
   Facilitate microfinance and credit options for smallholder irrigation farmers.
3. Farmers & Cooperatives: Adopt organic and alternative fertilizers where possible to reduce dependency on chemical inputs.
   Leverage group purchasing power to access bulk fertilizer and negotiate better prices.