No fewer than 1,000 small-scale farmers in Katsina, including displaced persons and people with special needs, will receive free agricultural inputs from the Federal Government.
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, disclosed this during Thursday’s flag-off of the distribution exercise in Katsina.
Represented by a director in the ministry, Umar Musa, Kyari said the intervention supports President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and sustainable food security.
He described food security as a critical national and global priority, aligned with the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
Kyari said the government had launched wide-ranging economic reforms to boost agricultural productivity, create jobs and reduce the rising cost of living.
“To address challenges affecting our food security goals, the administration is implementing strategic reforms to stimulate productivity and improve access to food,” he said.
He added that targeted emergency and humanitarian interventions had been introduced to cushion the impact of the prevailing food crisis.
Kyari recalled that a state of emergency on food security was declared in July 2023, demonstrating commitment to transforming agriculture.
“Since assuming office on Aug. 21, 2023, the ministry has reviewed programmes and introduced initiatives to support farmers and ensure food is available and affordable,” he said.
He assured that agricultural programmes align with presidential priorities, while collaboration with states, partners, NGOs and the private sector is being strengthened.
The minister said the intervention targeted smallholder farmers constrained by high input costs.
“Our priority is to ensure essential inputs and mechanisation tools are accessible through transparent and accountable processes,” Kyari stated.
Items distributed include power tillers, herbicides, liquid fertilisers, knapsack sprayers and water pumps.
Alhaji Ya’u Gwajo-Gwajo, Katsina State chairman, All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), commended the initiative but urged provision of improved seeds and subsidised fertilisers.
Represented by the Secretary, Sani Danjari, he said access to seeds and fertilisers would enhance productivity and maximise the inputs.
Women farmers’ representative, Binta Haruna, thanked the government and pledged beneficiaries would use the inputs judiciously to boost food production.
