Experts seek soil-based fertiliser recommendations to improve yields

At the 2026 Nigeria Fertiliser Summit in Abuja, experts called for fertiliser recommendations tailored to soil conditions and crops, rather than uniform application rates that can waste money and reduce productivity. Findings presented by the Regional Hub for Fertilizer and Soil Health for West Africa and the Sahel showed that phosphorus needs for maize and rice in northern Nigeria range from zero to more than 60 kg of phosphorus pentoxide per hectare, depending on the soil. Soil scientist Vincent Aduramigba-Modupe and Professor Jibrin Mohammed Jibrin stressed the value of soil testing and data, alongside stronger coordination among agricultural stakeholders.