By Ade Iyamoye
Farmers in rural communities across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), have raised alarm over looming food shortages as the 2025 rainy season kicks off without the usual government-subsidised farm inputs.
Speaking to newsmen in Abuja, distressed farmers from Gwagwalada, Kuje, Kwali, and Abaji area councils lamented the absence of improved seeds, fertilisers, sprayers, tractors, and agro-chemicals—essential materials they say are crucial for cultivation and food security.
In Dobi community, Ahmadu Usman said he cleared three hectares for planting but had to buy farm inputs on credit from Suleja due to government silence. “I can’t wait endlessly.
The rains are here, and the season won’t wait,” he said.
Similarly, Bamayi Markus of Dafara in Kuje said high market prices forced him to buy inferior seedlings, while Dantani Gwatana of Riwaza in Kwali lamented using hoes instead of tractors due to lack of access and affordability.
From Zukpatu to Abaji, farmers repeated the same complaint—inputs arrive too late or never come.
Alhaji Muhammadu Dangana, the Sarkin Noma of Abaji, decried how middlemen hijack government supplies, leaving genuine farmers stranded.
Leaders of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), and the Rice Farmers Association (RIFAN), echoed the same frustration, urging immediate intervention to avoid poor harvests and deeper food insecurity.
Meanwhile, the FCT Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat says it is working to address the crisis.
Mandate Secretary Abdullahi Ango assured that interventions will soon begin following a week-long strategy session and facility tours across the councils.
He pledged faster delivery of seeds and equipment and promised to strengthen partnerships to attract private investments into FCT agribusiness.
Still, as fields wait and skies darken with early rains, hope among the farmers fades—with many warning that time is running out.
