The Sokoto State Government has flagged off the distribution of 69,630 bags of fertilizers and various seeds to farmers for the 2024 dry season, reiterating its commitment to ensuring food security and economic growth.
Speaking at the distribution event, Governor Ahmed Aliyu emphasized the government’s dedication to empowering farmers, including women and youths, through the provision of free agricultural inputs. “The sole aim is to ensure a bumper harvest and promote food security by the special grace of Allah,” he stated.
The inputs being distributed include 69,630 bags of fertilizers, which will be shared equally among the state’s 23 local government areas, with each receiving three truckloads. Seeds and other tools are also part of the distribution package to enhance agricultural productivity during the dry season.
Governor Aliyu highlighted the government’s prior support to farmers during the last rainy season, which included the distribution of 45,366 bags of NPK, 24,264 bags of Urea, 20,664 liters of agrochemicals, and 20,000 kilograms each of rice, sorghum, and millet seeds. Additionally, youths and women groups benefited from 1,000 water pumps, 23 multipurpose threshers, 3,000 tomato grinding machines, and 58 rice threshers, all at no cost.
The governor announced progress in irrigation infrastructure, including the completion of the Kware Irrigation Scheme covering 450 hectares, which will soon be allocated to farmers. He also noted the commencement of work on the Wurno Irrigation Scheme and the rehabilitation of Lugu Dam.
Governor Aliyu urged civil servants, politicians, businesspeople, and youths to seize the opportunities provided in the agricultural sector to achieve self-reliance and drive the state’s economic growth. “We are committed to making agriculture one of the best sectors in the country, in partnership with national and international organizations,” he said.
The governor also assured farmers of continued support, including the provision of cash crop inputs such as cotton and groundnut, and expressed gratitude to development partners like the World Bank, Federal CARES Support Unit, and National Fadama Coordination Office for their assistance.
Governor Aliyu warned against mismanagement of the distributed inputs, cautioning officials against corruption. “We have taken necessary measures to ensure that any attempt to compromise or divert these products will be dealt with decisively. Have the fear of Allah and allow the masses to benefit fully,” he admonished.
The initiative underscores Sokoto State’s dedication to enhancing agricultural productivity, diversifying revenue sources, and ensuring food security in Nigeria.
