The Borno State Government has launched a new initiative to provide subsidized fertilizers to farmers for the 2024 rainy season, aiming to enhance agricultural productivity.
Deputy Governor Umar Kadafur inaugurated the program at the Farm Centre’s fertilizer depot in Maiduguri, emphasizing the government’s dedication to boosting productivity and achieving food sufficiency in the state.
Governor Kadafur highlighted the scale of the initiative, stating, “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.” He underscored the importance of fertilizer in improving agricultural output, noting that local manure is insufficient for large-scale farming.
“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.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to the agricultural sector, Kadafur added, “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.”
Kadafur urged farmers to use the inputs effectively to boost 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.
Hon. Bawu Musami, the Borno State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, also addressed the event, highlighting the government’s ongoing support for 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 continuous support and interventions in the agricultural sector.
In addition to the fertilizer distribution, the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) handed over 17 metric tons of certified seeds to the Borno State Government for distribution to farmers.
Chief Party USAID and Principal Analyst IITA, Prakasch Silwal, presented the seeds, which 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.
Expressing gratitude on behalf of Governor Zulum and the people of Borno State, Deputy Governor Kadafur thanked IITA for their valuable contribution. One of the beneficiaries, Fatima Goni, also expressed her appreciation to the Borno State Government and IITA for the fertilizer and seeds, assuring that the inputs would be used effectively to enhance agricultural productivity.
This initiative marks a significant step towards improving agricultural yields and ensuring food security in Borno State, reflecting the government’s commitment to supporting farmers and developing the agricultural sector.
