Nigeria, World Bank, ECOWAS, others to promote regional hub for fertiliser

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, in collaboration with the World Bank, Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Accelerating Impacts of CGIAR Climate Research for Africa (AICCRA), International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) and CORAF – West and Central Africa Council for Agricultural Research Development, have agreed to work towards promoting a regional hub for fertiliser and soil health for West Africa and the Sahel.

The partners said the collaboration would enhance agricultural productivity and sustainable profitability across the region.

They also noted that the development would combine cutting-edge laboratory testing and training facilities with cross-sector experts to support development of advanced soil health and fertiliser technologies in West Africa and the Sahel.

Minister of State for Agriculture, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, whose speech was presented by a representative, said that by the year 2033, the hub would help to increase yields and income for three million farmers, improve soil health on 1.5 million hectares of land, and equip 1.5 million farmers to adapt to climate change.

He noted that the hub leverages a step-change in coordination and collaboration to tackle the critical agricultural production challenges in the region by promoting sustainable soil health and optimum fertiliser practices that will enhance the sustainability and resilience of agricultural production and food security.

In his presentation, Ehui said: “This regional hub is a groundbreaking step towards revolutionising agricultural practices in West Africa and the Sahel.

“By leveraging our extensive research experience and collaborating with key stakeholders, we will empower farmers with the knowledge and tools to improve soil health and achieve sustainable food security across the region.”

In his remarks, Toure-Litse said: “The fertiliser and soil health hub is critical for agricultural development in West Africa.

“By focusing on knowledge sharing, capacity development, and evidence-based practices, it perfectly aligns with the strategic guidance outlined in the Lomé Declaration on Fertilisers and Soil Health in West Africa and the Sahel, adopted on May 2023 to empower member-states to achieve sustainable agriculture goals.”

In another presentation, World Bank Regional Director for Sustainable Development, Chakib Jenane, said: “The bank is committed to help in achieving Sustainable Development Goals 2 and 13 to eliminate hunger, achieve food security, improve nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture, and to take urgent actions to address climate change and its impacts.”