Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, on Monday, launched the distribution of 500 trucks of fertiliser, totaling about 15,000 metric tonnes, to smallholder farmers across the state’s 23 Local Government Areas.
The governor, speaking at the launch event held at Murtala Square in Kaduna, said that 240,000 bags of fertiliser would be given free of charge to 120,000 smallholder farmers, with each farmer receiving two bags.
Sani emphasized that this initiative is part of the state government’s effort to boost the agricultural sector, which plays a crucial role in the state’s economy.
He noted that agriculture contributes 42.81% to Kaduna State’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employs 42% of the workforce.
The governor highlighted Kaduna’s importance in Nigeria’s agricultural sector, noting that the state is the leading producer of ginger and also contributes significantly to the production of maize, soybeans, tomatoes, sorghum, rice paddy, and cowpeas.
Sani also announced that the state government has allocated N22.54 billion to the agricultural sector in the 2024 budget, a significant increase from previous years.
He listed the state government’s achievements in improving food security, supporting rural livelihoods, and driving economic growth, such as the Tallafin Noma initiative, solar-powered irrigation pumps, and the Africa Quality Assurance Centre (AQAC) project.
The governor urged farmers to use the fertilisers responsibly and efficiently, expressing optimism that these efforts will lead to better harvests and stronger food security in Kaduna and across the nation.
“I am extremely delighted to be here to flag off the distribution of 500 trucks of fertiliser (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.
“This initiative clearly demonstrates our steadfast commitment to empowering our farmers and re-energizing our agricultural sector. Agriculture is not only the backbone of our state’s economy but also a vital contributor to our overall growth and development. According to our latest GDP report, agriculture contributes 42.81% to Kaduna State’s GDP and employs 42% of the total workforce.
“Our state is a significant player in Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, ranking first in the production of ginger, contributing 76.4% to the national output. We also lead in maize production, contributing 7.4% of the national yield, and we rank second in soybeans production, contributing 9.4%.
“In the 2024 Budget of Kaduna State, we allocated N22.54 billion to the agricultural sector. This allocation marks a significant increase from previous years and demonstrates our resolve to cultivate a vibrant agricultural ecosystem.
“As we distribute these fertilisers today, I urge all farmers to use them responsibly and efficiently. We are optimistic that these measures will maximise our harvests and strengthen the food security of Kaduna State and our nation.
“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all partners, stakeholders, and dedicated government officials who have contributed to these efforts. Together, we are building a prosperous and resilient agricultural sector that will benefit all citizens of Kaduna State.”
In his welcome address, the State Commissioner of Agriculture, Murtala Mohammed Dabo, described the program as a significant achievement in the state’s agricultural journey.
He praised the governor for his visionary leadership and support, which he said made this achievement possible.
Dabo also acknowledged the efforts of the State Ministry of Agriculture, the Kaduna State Agricultural Development Agency (KADA), and the Kaduna State Committee on Fertilizer Distribution for their roles in ensuring the program’s success.
He urged farmers to use the fertiliser wisely, noting that the future of agriculture in the state depends on their dedication and hard work.
The commissioner pledged to continue supporting farmers to ensure the growth of the agricultural sector in Kaduna State.
He also highlighted the expected outcomes of the program, including increased crop production, enhanced food security, reduced poverty, and the empowerment of farmers to maximize their productivity and improve their livelihoods.
“I wish to highlight a few expected outcomes from this flag-off. With the timely application of these fertilisers, we anticipate a significant boost in crop production, which will enhance food security and reduce poverty levels across Kaduna State.
“This distribution will also empower our farmers to maximise their productivity and improve their livelihoods. And as yields increase, we expect to see a strengthening of the entire agricultural value chain, from farm to market, resulting in greater economic opportunities for our people,” the Commissioner added.
