Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) on Tuesday disclosed that it has secured N491.4 million ( $4.2 million ) Agricultural Development Programme (ADP) for the implementation of the FADAMA III project in the territory.

The authorities disclosed that the programme, which is expected to take off in September 2008 is an initiative of World Bank to accelerate agricultural development in rural areas across the country.
FCT Minister, Dr. Aliyu Modibbo Umar, who made the disclosure at the flag-off of the sales of fertiliser and launch of 2008 cropping season in Kuje Area Council confirmed the delivery of 8,100 metric tonnes of assorted fertilizers from Federal Government and procurement of additional 10,450 metric tonnes by the FCT Administration.

Modibbo also disclosed concluded arrangement for the procurement of 10 additional tractors and agro-processors to be sold to Farmers Co-operative Society and large scale farmers at subsidised rates.

The minister stated that under the arrangement, 50 kilogrammes of the NPK, Urea and SSP are to be sold at a subsidised rate of N1,900, N700 and N1,500 respectively. He explained that the successful implementation of the FADAMA II project with about 1,202 member farmers' group led to the qualification to participate in the FADAMA III programme. He said the administration has also established an Integrated Agriculture Development Centre in Yaba of the territory with sixty students as part of its efforts to surmount the growing number of unemployed and educated youth in FCT.

Modibbo further added that the administration has procured 10 metric tonnes of improved seeds for sale to farmers in addition to 16,000 litres of assorted agrochemicals. He also hinted on the ongoing plans to embark on capacity building for 10,000 farming families in FCT for effective technology transfer to increase their productivity and income. This has led to repositioning of the FCT ADP to play its role of disseminating proven technology to her farmers, he added.
While reiterating the commitment to boost food production, the minister assured Abuja residents of the administration's commitment to job creation and poverty eradication in the territory.

Speaking at the occasion, Chairman of the Kuje Area Council, Hon Danladi Etsu Zhin said the fertiliser will be sold at additional 10 per cent subsidy to the people.

Source: Guardian