BREAKING: FCT-SAPZ, FCT-ADP, Contec Agro Join Forces To Promote Organic Agriculture In FCT
The Federal Capital Territory administration’s Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (FCT-SAPZ) Project, and the FCT Agricultural Development Programme (FCT-ADP) have partnered with Greenfields Contec Global Agro Limited to promote Bio-organic farming in the FCT.
The coordinator for the FCT-SAPZ project, Hajia Umma Abubakar, explained that the initiative aims to demonstrate environmentally safe and organic inputs to farmers within and around the SAPZ Project Communities, particularly in the Paikon kore Grazing Reserve, a designated SAPZ Project site.
She said the project seeks to ensure that all products used in the zone are safe for the environment, enhance productivity, and provide farmers with value for their money.
“A partnership has been established with a company that supplies these organic inputs, and a demonstration plot has been set up to showcase their effectiveness. The demonstration Plots, which feature two major crops, i.e maize and soybeans, are established to showcase the difference between the organically produced crops and those produced in the conventional inorganic way.”
The coordinator further emphasised that the goal is not just to distribute products but to ensure farmers witness their benefits firsthand.
Greenfields Contec Global Agro Limited representative Mr Abishaek Samuel said his organisation is excited to introduce a groundbreaking solution for farmers that enhances crop yield while being more affordable and healthier than conventional options.
“Our product is uniquely formulated as bio-organic, containing beneficial bacteria and microbes native to Nigerian soil. After seven years of extensive research across all states in Nigeria, we’ve identified and harnessed these microbes to create a product that enriches the soil, promotes sustainable farming, and boosts crop growth,” he said.
According to him, the product improves soil health, leading to higher crop yields over time. Instead of declining productivity, farmers can expect consistent growth year after year. He said that, unlike chemical fertilisers, bio-organic solution rejuvenates the soil, allowing farmers to cultivate the same land without needing rotation or shifting cultivation.
“We’re collaborating closely with the FCT Agricultural Development Program (ADP) to ensure farmers across different area councils can easily access our product. It will be stocked in the ADP stores, and we’ve organised this training to educate farmers on its proper use.
“Our aim is to empower farmers with a sustainable, affordable, and effective solution that not only improves their yields but also promotes environmental stewardship. We’re excited to partner with local farmers and the ADP to make this vision a reality,” he said.
Mr Godfrey Ugwoke stressed that the three organisations are collaborating in synergy. “They’ve chosen to work with us because our institution is recognised as a hub for farmers, where innovative solutions are developed and shared,” he added.
He said, “The goal of this partnership is to add value to their product by testing it through our demo plot. This phase is crucial as it allows us to compare and contrast the product’s performance, ensuring it delivers on its promises before recommending it to farmers.”
According to him, “The essence of this demonstration is to validate the effectiveness of the product. If it doesn’t meet expectations, it won’t progress further. However, if it proves beneficial, it will likely gain widespread acceptance among farmers. Farmers trust our recommendations because we only promote proven, innovative agricultural solutions. This product is one such innovation we’re excited to explore.”
Also, the head of Extension at the FCT Agricultural Development Programme, Dr Omole Olateju, said they are launching a demonstration farm that showcases the partnership between the FCT Agricultural Development Programme and Contec Global Agro Limited, a producer of organic agricultural products.
He said this initiative aims to encourage farmers to adopt organic farming practices that are healthier for consumers and the environment. “Harmful chemicals in crop production can have long-term adverse effects on human health, and our goal is to promote safer alternatives,” he noted.
The products introduced by Contec Global Agro Limited offer a more affordable and environmentally friendly solution for farmers. High input costs often make it difficult for farmers to break even in their business, but he stated that these products provide a cost-effective option without compromising quality.