The Borno State Government has launched the sales and distribution of 2024 rainy season fertilizers to farmers at subsidized prices to boost agricultural production.
The Deputy Governor, Umar Kadafur, inaugurated the initiative at the fertilizer depot at the Farm Centre in Maiduguri on Tuesday.
Governor Kadafur stated, “I am honored to launch the 2024 fertilizer sales and distribution to all farmers in the state. The government has procured 100 trucks of fertilizer to be sold at a 50 percent discount to farmers across the 27 local government areas of the state.”
“Fertilizer is crucial for improving agricultural production as our local manure is insufficient for all our farmers’ needs, particularly for large-scale farming. It is essential to provide agricultural inputs to our farmers at the right time and at affordable prices to ensure greater yields,” Kadafur emphasized.
He highlighted the government’s commitment to agriculture, aiming to enhance productivity and achieve food sufficiency in the state.
“The Borno State Government prioritizes agriculture, mobilizing resources to develop the sector. We have procured tractors, chemicals, and other inputs to support our farmers. This initiative aims to ensure that our farmers can increase productivity,” he said.
Kadafur urged farmers to use the inputs effectively to improve agricultural production.
“Let us work together to harness the potential of our land, increase productivity, and ensure food security for our communities.
“As we embark on this rainy season, let us do so with determination and optimism. By sowing the seeds of progress and dedication, we can cultivate a brighter future for all,” he said.
The Borno State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Hon. Bawu Musami, noted that the government has given top priority to the agricultural sector.
He recalled that on June 4, 2023, Governor Babagana Zulum launched the 2023 fertilizer sales and distribution and distributed 312 tractors to each ward in the state.
Represented by his Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Bulama Gana, Musami commended Governor Zulum for his support and interventions in the agricultural sector.
Additionally, the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) has handed over 17 metric tons of certified seeds to the Borno State Government for distribution to farmers.
Presenting the seeds, Chief Party USAID and Principal Analyst IITA, Prakasch Silwal, mentioned that the seeds were locally produced by farmers in Biu, Hawul, Kwaya Kusar, and Shani local government areas. The seeds have demonstrated a production rate of 7 tons of maize per hectare.
In response, the Deputy Governor expressed gratitude on behalf of Governor Zulum and the people of Borno State for the seeds provided by IITA.
One of the beneficiaries, Fatima Goni, thanked the Borno State Government and IITA for the fertilizer and seeds, assuring that the inputs would be used effectively.
