On Tuesday, Governor Comrade Dr. Nasiru Idris distributed agricultural inputs worth N4 billion to 48,000 farmers across the 21 Local Government Areas of Kebbi State to enhance optimal food production during the wet season.
The distribution ceremony, held at the Kebbi State Agricultural and Rural Development Agency (KARDA) in Kalgo, Birnin Kebbi, was part of the N-CARES program aimed at bolstering food production and ensuring food security in the state and across Nigeria. The Governor expressed his satisfaction with the program’s impact, noting that food production in the state had increased by over 300 percent. He attributed this success to the judicious and accountable use of state resources and declared his ambition for Kebbi to rank first in Nigeria by next year.
Governor Idris assured that his administration would prioritize agriculture, stating, “Agriculture is our comparative advantage. Therefore, agriculture will continue to receive its pride of place under my watch.” He also announced an additional N3 billion worth of agricultural assets to be distributed to farmers to further increase food production.
As part of the N-CARES program, 100 truckloads of fertilizer will be procured and distributed to farmers. Additionally, the Kebbi State Government and Local Government Councils will distribute 100 and 110 truckloads of fertilizer, respectively, free of charge. The Governor warned against selling government-provided fertilizer, instructing security agencies to monitor, arrest, and prosecute violators.
The Governor highlighted that the N-CARES program would also address other areas such as water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) and the provision of more agricultural inputs. He announced that President Bola Tinubu had approved the revocation of the Zuru road contract, with documentation underway for the state government to take over the project.
Dr. Abba Sani Kalgo, the state Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, stated that the extension of the project was timely and designed to address emerging economic challenges, praising Governor Idris for his resilience and commitment.
