On Monday, Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, inaugurated the distribution of 500 trucks of fertilizer—equivalent to 15,000 metric tonnes—to smallholder farmers across the state’s 23 Local Government Areas. The launch, held at Murtala Square in Kaduna, marks a significant step in the state government’s efforts to revitalize the agricultural sector.
Governor Sani announced that 240,000 bags of fertilizer would be distributed free of charge to 120,000 smallholder farmers, with each farmer receiving two bags. He emphasized that this initiative underscores the state government’s commitment to strengthening the agricultural sector, a vital contributor to the state’s economy.
According to the governor, agriculture accounts for 42.81% of Kaduna State’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employs 42% of the workforce. He highlighted the state’s prominent role in Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, noting that Kaduna ranks first in ginger production and contributes significantly to the nation’s output of maize, soybeans, tomatoes, sorghum, rice paddy, and cowpeas.
Governor Sani also announced a substantial allocation of N22.54 billion to the agricultural sector in the state’s 2024 budget, reflecting a significant increase from previous years. This funding, he said, will be directed towards initiatives aimed at enhancing food security, promoting rural livelihoods, and driving economic growth. Among these initiatives are the Tallafin Noma program, solar-powered irrigation pumps, and the Africa Quality Assurance Centre project.
Addressing the farmers, Governor Sani urged them to use the fertilizers responsibly and efficiently, expressing optimism that these efforts would maximize harvests and bolster food security both in Kaduna State and across the nation.
“I am extremely delighted to be here to flag off the distribution of 500 trucks of fertilizer to farmers across Kaduna State. This initiative 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,” Sani said.
He expressed gratitude to all partners and stakeholders who contributed to the initiative, adding, “Together, we are building a prosperous and resilient agricultural sector that will benefit all citizens of Kaduna State.”
In his welcome address, State Commissioner of Agriculture, Murtala Mohammed Dabo, lauded the program as a landmark achievement in the state’s agricultural development. He credited Governor Sani’s visionary leadership and the collaborative efforts of the State Ministry of Agriculture, the Kaduna State Agricultural Development Agency, and the Kaduna State Committee on Fertilizer Distribution for the program’s success.
Commissioner Dabo encouraged farmers to use the fertilizer wisely, stressing that the future of agriculture in the state depends on their dedication and hard work. He also highlighted the anticipated outcomes of the program, including a significant boost in crop production, enhanced food security, reduced poverty levels, and the empowerment of farmers to maximize their productivity and improve their livelihoods.
“With the timely application of these fertilizers, we anticipate a significant boost in crop production, which will enhance food security and reduce poverty levels across Kaduna State,” Dabo stated. “As yields increase, we expect to see a strengthening of the entire agricultural value chain, resulting in greater economic opportunities for our people.”
