The NFSHCS is an initiative by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS) aimed at improving soil health and fertility through scientific soil testing and data-driven fertilizer recommendations. It promotes sustainable agriculture by ensuring the judicious application of fertilizers and soil management practices, ultimately enhancing productivity and environmental sustainability.

A Soil Health Card (SHC) is a printed report that provides farmers with vital information on the condition of their soil. It includes details on soil fertility, pH levels, macro and micronutrients, organic matter content, and other important physical and biological properties. The card also provides recommendations on fertilizer application and soil management practices tailored to specific crops and locations.

The SHC enables farmers to make informed decisions regarding fertilizer use and soil management, which leads to improved soil fertility, higher crop productivity, and cost savings by avoiding excessive or incorrect fertilizer application. It also helps mitigate soil degradation, reduces environmental pollution, and supports long-term agricultural sustainability.

Soil samples will be collected from farms based on a systematic grid-based approach. In irrigated areas, samples will be taken from a 2.5-hectare grid, while in rainfed areas, they will be taken from a 10-hectare grid. These samples will be analyzed at Soil Testing Laboratories (STLs) located at the state and local government levels.

The entire process, from soil sample collection to the issuance of Soil Health Cards, is expected to take approximately 30 days. The first 10 days are allocated for sampling and registration, followed by 10 days for laboratory analysis. The results and recommendations are uploaded within the next five days, and the final five days are dedicated to printing and distribution.

The scheme is designed to benefit smallholder farmers across Nigeria by providing them with essential soil health information. It also supports private laboratory entrepreneurs, particularly young individuals between the ages of 18 and 27, and up to 35 years for women, by offering them opportunities to establish and manage soil testing laboratories. Additionally, agricultural extension workers and soil scientists involved in testing and advisory services also stand to benefit.

The Federal and State Governments provide financial support for soil testing equipment in the establishment laboratories with trained personnel. Farmers may contribute a portion of the cost associated with soil sample analysis.

The Soil Health Card Scheme is expected to enhance agricultural productivity by ensuring balanced and efficient fertilizer use. It will improve farmers’ income by reducing input costs while increasing yields. The scheme will also contribute to environmental sustainability by preventing soil degradation and pollution. Additionally, it will create employment opportunities for rural youth and support the development of a national soil health database to inform future agricultural policies.

Farmers will receive their SHCs through printed copies distributed at local extension offices. They will also have the option to access their soil health information online via the National Soil Health Card Portal.

The implementation and monitoring of the scheme will be overseen by the National Executive Committee (NEC) in collaboration with State and Local Government Executive Committees. The scheme will also involve key stakeholders, including research institutes, development partners, and farmer organizations, to ensure its effectiveness and sustainability.