Agricultural experts have emphasized the need for soil-specific fertiliser recommendations to enhance crop yields and reduce unnecessary costs for farmers. This call to action was made during the 2026 Nigeria Fertiliser Summit on Phosphorus and Food Security held in Abuja, where experts highlighted the inefficiencies of a one-size-fits-all approach to fertiliser application.

The summit, organized by the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T) at Obafemi Awolowo University in collaboration with the Fertilizer Producers and Suppliers Association of Nigeria (FEPSAN) and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, brought together key stakeholders in the agricultural sector. Experts presented findings that revealed significant variations in phosphorus requirements for crops like maize and rice across different regions in northern Nigeria. Depending on soil conditions, the phosphorus needs can range from zero to over 60 kilogrammes of phosphorus pentoxide per hectare.

Phosphorus is crucial for plant health, supporting root development and crop growth. However, its availability is influenced by the unique properties of the soil in which crops are grown. Prof. Vincent Aduramigba-Modupe, a soil scientist at IAR&T, pointed out that simply increasing fertiliser use does not guarantee improved agricultural productivity. He stated, "Improving crop productivity is not only about applying fertiliser. It is about ensuring the right nutrient is applied in the right amount, at the right place, and under the right conditions."

The importance of soil data and tailored fertiliser recommendations was echoed by Aliyu Abdullahi, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, represented by Oshadiya Olanipekun, the Director of Agricultural Land and Climate Change Management Services. Olanipekun highlighted that understanding soil conditions and crop-specific nutrient needs is vital for enhancing farmers' productivity and profitability.

Prof. Jibrin Mohammed Jibrin, a visiting scientist at the Regional Hub for Fertilizer and Soil Health for West Africa and a professor of soil science at Bayero University, Kano, stressed the necessity of soil intelligence in food production. He warned against fragmented interventions in agricultural practices, which could hinder progress towards improving soil health. "The basis of food production and food security is the soil. You need healthy soil to produce well and feed the nation with nutritious food," he remarked.

Dr. Bello Shehu, a senior agronomist at the Regional Hub, reiterated that effective phosphorus management requires a deep understanding of the specific nutrient needs of various soils and crops rather than merely increasing fertiliser application.

The Vice-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Prof. A.S. Bamire, also contributed to the discussions, emphasizing that agricultural productivity relies on responsible nutrient management, innovative research, and stronger partnerships among stakeholders. The summit underscored the critical need for collaboration to ensure sustainable agricultural practices that can lead to improved food security in Nigeria.