How non-farmers got subsidised fertiliser in Niger
On July 17, 2024, a farmer from Shiroro LGA traveled to Minna to buy government-subsidized fertilizer but couldn’t obtain it, even after being redirected to the Niger State Agricultural Mechanisation and Development Agency (NAMDA). There, he was offered fertilizer at N35,000 per bag instead of the subsidized N21,500.
Despite the governor’s promise of a 50% discount on fertilizer, many farmers struggled to access it. Investigations revealed that out of 30 trucks of fertilizer meant for distribution, half were allocated to emirs, political appointees, and other special groups, with some reselling their allocations.
Dr. Mathew Ahmed, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, confirmed these allocations but insisted on transparency. He acknowledged issues in Minna, where local groups blocked farmers from buying fertilizer. The government defended its actions, citing pressures from political and traditional leaders, while the Commissioner for Agriculture urged patience, assuring that efforts were being made to support farmers.
Source: Daily Trust
Our Review
The reported misallocation of government-subsidized fertilizer in Niger State highlights significant challenges in Africa’s agri-food value chain. Farmers, who rely heavily on affordable inputs, are disadvantaged by the diversion of resources to political and traditional elites. This scenario disrupts equitable access to essential farming inputs, increasing production costs and ultimately threatening food security. The mismanagement and corruption erode trust in government programs, deterring future participation and investment in agriculture.
For the value chain, this issue can lead to lower crop yields, reduced income for smallholder farmers, and increased food prices, negatively impacting the entire economy. Effective governance, transparency, and accountability are crucial in addressing these challenges. By ensuring that resources reach the intended beneficiaries, governments can foster a more resilient and productive agricultural sector, driving growth and supporting informed decision-making across the value chain.
