The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has commenced the distribution of farm inputs to smallholder farmers through their cooperative societies in Adamawa State.
Speaking at the inauguration in Yola, the Minister of Agriculture, Senator Abubakar Kyari, said the intervention was aimed at boosting agricultural production and strengthening food security across the country.
Kyari, represented by the Director of Planning and Policy Coordination in the ministry, Mr. Umar Mohammed, said the items were provided free of charge.
He listed the inputs to include power tiller machines, growth enhancers, sprayers, rice selectors, and water pumps.
According to him, the distribution was for the 2024 farming season, while preparations were ongoing for the 2025 season.
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“It is the resolve of the present administration to develop the agricultural sector towards improving rural productivity and attaining the Sustainable Development Goals, especially Goal 2: Zero Hunger.
“We reiterate our commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s agricultural sector for enhanced food security and poverty eradication,” Kyari said.
He urged beneficiaries to put the items to proper use and cautioned against selling them in the market.
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In his remarks, the Adamawa State Coordinator of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. Salihu Jenongso, described the initiative as a viable step toward increased food production.
He also encouraged cooperative members to intensify efforts in supporting both the state and the nation’s drive for food security.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Imma Ibrahim, Chairman of Njwa Multipurpose Cooperative Society, thanked the Federal Government for the intervention.
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He assured that the farm inputs would be used judiciously and called on members to ensure proper maintenance for maximum impact.
It was reported that 30 cooperative societies have so far benefited from the first phase of the distribution.