ASHENEWS reports that farmers across Niger state have called for transparency and fairness in the agricultural support initiatives by the state Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago.
By Abdulrahman Ibrahim, Niger
The farmers stated this during separate interviews with ASHENEWS Reporter.
The farmers stated that transparency in the scheme would enable qualified individuals benefit from the agricultural support initiatives aimed at boosting farming in the state.
Though the farmers expressed their appreciation for the Governor’s continued efforts in improving the agricultural sector, they stated that several farmers who are qualified for these schemes are not benefiting from it
Abdulbasit Salihu, a farmer from Evuti community in Lapai Local Government noted that the rising cost of agro-products and chemicals has made it difficult for farmers to cultivate large portions of land.
“We appreciate the Governor’s commitment to agriculture, but the prices of inputs are going up daily. Many of us who once cultivated large farms now struggle to manage smaller portions because we lack the capital to fund it,” Salihu said.
Hassan Mohammed, a farmer from Wushishi Local Government also emphasized how the current economic challenges have affected their productivity.
“The economic situation has hit us hard. Before now, I could cultivate 10 hectares, but this season, I could only afford to farm five hectares,” Mohammed stated.
Similarly, Abubakar Ibrahim from Legbo Zukun community in Gbako Local Government added that the rising costs have hindered farmers’ ability to maximize their output.
“The costs of fertilizers and chemicals are unbearable. We need more support from the government to help us farm efficiently and produce enough to sustain our families,” Ibrahim said.
The farmers then urged the Governor to continue prioritizing agriculture and ensure that the right people benefit from the state’s support to enable better farming across Niger State.
