FG Seeks Collaboration To Establish Soil Testing Laboratories

The Federal Government has called for collaboration with private sector stakeholders and development partners to establish soil testing laboratories across the country.

 

Mr Aliyu Sabi, the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, made the call during a sensitisation and advocacy campaign in Kano.

 

He was represented by Alh. Isa Hotoro, the State Coordinator for the Federal Ministry of Agriculture in Kano.

 

According to Sabi, the Federal Government plans to set up soil testing laboratories in all 774 Local Government Areas as part of the Nigeria Farmers’ Soil Health Card Scheme.

 

This initiative aims to promote sustainable agricultural practices, improve crop yields, and enhance soil quality monitoring.

 

Sabi emphasised the importance of testing soil to achieve these goals.

 

He urged private investors to partner with relevant agencies and organisations to set up modern laboratories that can provide accurate soil analysis.

 

“This initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s broader agricultural development agenda.

 

“The agenda seeks to empower farmers with the tools and knowledge needed for increased productivity and sustainable growth,” he said.

 

Earlier, Mr Oshodiya Olanipekun, the Director of Agricultural Land and Climate Change Management Services, stated that the establishment of soil testing laboratories would provide farmers with accurate data on soil health.

 

Olanipekun, represented by his Special Adviser, Mr Taiwo Ojelabi, said that the soil testing laboratories would improve crop yields and promote sustainable farming practices when established.

 

 

He also highlighted the importance of soil laboratories in analysing soil properties, such as nutrient content, pH levels, and contamination.

 

 

Some participants noted that soil analysis was essential for preventing soil erosion and promoting sustainable farming practices.

 

 

“Without soil testing, farmers often use fertilisers and pesticides indiscriminately, which can harm the environment and reduce soil fertility in the long run.

 

“Setting up soil laboratories in Kano State will provide farmers with the necessary data to improve soil health and productivity,” they said.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NAN/Oyenike Oyeniyi