The management of government projects in Nigeria: a case study of fertilizer procurement and distribution to farmers in Nigeria

Nigeria's population is increasing but without a corresponding increase in food production, and because of reduced harvests, due to farming practices and loss of soil nutrients, there is a shortage of food in the country. The use of fertilizers is low, and affected by its availability, accessibility, affordability and proper use. This study explores the determinants of the procurement and distribution of fertilizer in Nigeria by using a supply chain approach. Extensive existing research established a link between operations and supply chain management in agriculture but does not explore the underlying features of supply chains that enable efficient and sustainable operations in developing countries sub-Saharan Africa. Existing literature on agriculture in Nigeria focuses on rural agriculturalists, commercial farmers, and the market structure, but very little research has been conducted on the supply chain of fertilizer, and this study aims to fill that gap. The study concludes that to achieve an efficient and sustainable fertilizer distribution programme in Nigeria, the government should adopt an effective use of sourcing strategy as a short-term approach, to develop needed infrastructure, and adopt further policies for monitoring and evaluation. To deliver the desired outcome on long-term basis, engagement and partnership with suppliers should be promoted. The study recommends and provide direction for further research which could be a longitudinal study covering all the 36 states of Nigeria using the same objectives as this study and additional studies should focus on the monitoring and evaluation of fertilizer supply chain in sub-Saharan Africa.