Kaduna State Government , AUDA-NEPAD Empower 400 Smallholder Farmers with Agricultural Inputs

From: Femi Oyelola in Kaduna

The Kaduna State Government, in collaboration with the African Union Development Agency–New Partnership for Africa’s Development (AUDA–NEPAD) Nigeria, has launched the distribution of agricultural inputs to approximately 400 smallholder farmers in the state.

Governor Uba Sani reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to empowering smallholder farmers and enhancing agricultural productivity across Kaduna, emphasizing that agriculture is the backbone of the state’s economy and a key driver of inclusive growth.

The event, held at the Arewa House, marked another milestone in the state’s agricultural transformation efforts. Governor Sani highlighted that this partnership reflects his administration’s commitment to people-centered development and aligns with Kaduna’s broader vision of building a food-secure, resilient, and inclusive economy. “Smallholder farmers form the backbone of our agricultural system,” he stated. “Supporting them means strengthening our economy, securing our food supply, and uplifting thousands of households.”

The Governor noted that, under his leadership, agriculture remains a top priority, with over ₦10 billion allocated for the sector in the 2025 budget. He added that Kaduna is the only state in Nigeria that has met the targets set by the Malabo Declaration on agricultural investment

. Hon. Jabir Abdullahi Tsauni, Chief Executive Officer of AUDA–NEPAD Nigeria, praised the Kaduna State Government for providing counterpart funding that enabled the program’s expansion to all 23 local government areas.

According to Tsauni, 345 smallholder farmers have been trained in good agronomic practices and climate-smart agriculture, including backyard farming for tomatoes, sweet peppers, maize, cowpeas, and soybeans. “These inputs are not just farming materials; they are instruments of hope and productivity,” he remarked.

This initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which prioritize inclusive and climate-resilient agriculture as a foundation for sustainable prosperity.

Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon. Murtala Dabo, emphasized that the program underscores Kaduna’s determination to make agriculture a viable enterprise rather than merely a way of life.

He noted that it reflects Governor Sani’s consistent support for partnerships that drive rural transformation, climate resilience, and food security.

Dabo commended AUDA–NEPAD for its collaboration and assured that Kaduna State will continue to be a reliable partner for development agencies in advancing agricultural innovation and supporting farmer empowerment.