From: Femi Oyelola, Kaduna
History was made yesterday in Kaduna as the State Governor, Sen. Uba Sani flagged off the distribution of free 15,000 metric tonnes of fertilizer to 120,000 smallholder farmers in the State.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Kaduna, yesterday, he said the 240,000 bags of fertilizer would be distributed free to 120,000 smallholder farmers, with each farmer receiving two bags.
The Governor emphasized that the initiative was part of the state government’s commitment to revitalizing the agricultural sector which immensely contributed to the state’s economy.
According to him, agriculture contributes 42.81% to the state’s Gross Domestic Product and employs 42% of the entire workforce.
The governor highlighted the state’s significant role in the nation’s agricultural landscape, ranking first in ginger production and contributing to maize, soybeans, tomato, sorghum, rice paddy, and cowpea production.
The governor also announced that the state government has allocated N22.54 billion to the agricultural sector in the 2024 budget, marking a significant increase from previous years.
He listed the state government’s achievements in enhancing food security, promoting rural livelihoods, and driving economic growth, including the Tallafin Noma initiative, solar-powered irrigation pumps, and the Africa Quality Assurance Centre (AQAC) project.
Sani, therefore, urged farmers to use the fertilizers responsibly and efficiently while expressing optimism that the measures would maximize harvests and strengthen food security in the state and nation.
The governor said, “I am extremely delighted to be here to flag – off the distribution of 500 trucks of fertilizer (about 15,000 metric tonnes) to farmers across Kaduna State. 240,000 bags will be distributed to 120,000 smallholder farmers for free. Today marks a significant milestone in our journey towards the revitalization of the agricultural sector and ensuring food security.”
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