The Kebbi State Government on Monday began distributing agricultural machines, other inputs, and Ramadan palliatives to over one million residents to boost dry-season farming across the state.
Items disbursed included 2,000 units of solar-powered pumps, 5,000 units of power tillers, 5,500 units of sprayers, 24,000 liters of herbicide, 70,000 liters of organic fertilizer, and 5,000 trucks of assorted fertilizers.
Gov. Nasir Idris spoke at the event, tagged “2026 Distribution of Dry Season Farm Implements and Ramadan Palliatives,” in Birnin Kebbi.
He said the support aligns with his administration’s agenda to empower farmers, improve productivity, and enhance food security.
Idris noted remarkable achievements in crop production, livestock development, and fisheries.
“Our huge investment in free farm inputs and extension services demonstrates our commitment to empowering farmers and promoting food security in Kebbi and the nation,” he said.
He stressed that continued growth in annual output of major crops proves the agenda is working.
Crop production rose from 3.05 million tonnes in 2023 to 3.15 million tonnes in 2024, with over 3 million tonnes projected for 2025 (ready by March).
Other crops have also seen steady increases, and Kebbi remains Nigeria’s leading rice producer.
“As we celebrate these successes, we inaugurate the 2026 dry-season farming programme. Kebbi has two production cycles in one dry season.
“Cycle one runs mid-November to end-March, with crops like wheat, vegetables, watermelon, and sweet melon.
“Cycle two begins mid-February to end-May, focusing on rice and maize,” he said.
Idris assured the initiative would boost food production, create jobs, and increase incomes, urging farmers to seize the opportunity for Kebbi and Nigeria’s growth.
He warned against substituting beneficiaries and directed security agencies to arrest and prosecute anyone selling items.
No Local Government Chairman, Commissioner, Adviser, or House of Assembly member should receive items, he added.
Idris thanked the Federal Government and specifically Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, for support.
Kyari said agriculture shapes Nigeria’s economy, noting over 80 per cent of Kebbi’s population engages in farming and related activities.
“Agriculture here is identity, culture, livelihood, and economy. A nation that cannot feed itself cannot claim sovereignty.
“Food security is an agricultural imperative and foundation of economic strength, social stability, and national resilience.
“President Bola Tinubu has elevated agriculture as a strategic priority, demanding action, coordination, and results.
“That mandate is shared from federal to state governments, institutions, and farmers,” he said.
Kyari praised Gov. Idris’ leadership in advancing the mandate, making productivity, value addition, and food security central to state development.
He highlighted Kebbi’s strategic input provision and long-standing rice leadership as a major contributor to national food supply.
Commissioner for Agriculture, Shehu Ma’azu, said the event was the third in the series since the administration assumed office.
He noted the governor has consistently provided free water pumps, power tillers, fertilizers, and other inputs.
“This is not a celebration of palliatives but of successes recorded in agriculture,” he said.
