The Federal Government of Nigeria has distributed agricultural inputs to smallholder farmers in Kano State as part of efforts to promote year-round farming and strengthen national food security.
Speaking at the distribution programme in Kano, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, said the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu. The minister, represented by Yarima Uba, Director of Horticulture at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, explained that the intervention targets food insecurity while supporting farmers to increase productivity.
According to Mr Kyari, smallholder farmers account for about 90% of Nigeria’s farming population, making them central to any meaningful boost in national food production. He added that the Federal Government declared a state of emergency on food security in July 2023, underscoring its commitment to transforming the agricultural sector and achieving the Sustainable Development Goal of zero hunger.
The items provided to beneficiaries include:
- Power tillers
- Herbicides
- Liquid fertilisers
- Knapsack sprayers
- Water pumps
These inputs were distributed through commodity associations, cooperative groups, farmers with special needs, and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), ensuring inclusive access to support.
Mr Kyari stressed that the materials were given free of charge and urged beneficiaries to use them responsibly to improve yields and help meet national food security targets. He also noted that the programme is ongoing across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
The Kano State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Danjuma Mahmoud (represented by Ibrahim Aliyu), commended the Federal Government, saying the intervention would help farmers who suffered losses return to farming and sustain food production.
The State Director of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in Kano, Rukayya Abdulkadir-Tunau, advised farmers to follow safety guidelines when handling agro-chemicals, including the use of protective gear to prevent health risks and environmental damage.
She disclosed that about 70 farmers’ associations are expected to benefit, with over 800 farmers receiving direct support.
Representing small-scale women farmers, Dije Ibrahim-Tudunwada praised the initiative and encouraged beneficiaries to apply inputs carefully and always wear protective masks during pesticide use.
Speaking on behalf of beneficiaries, Murtala Musa, a physically challenged farmer, applauded the inclusion of vulnerable groups, saying the intervention would improve livelihoods. He revealed that similar support had enabled him to harvest up to 200 bags of rice and other produce annually, and called for sustained inclusion of persons with disabilities in future programmes.
Kabiyesi Connexion
Thank you for supporting small farm owners in Nigeria. Is there any place to register our farm on the portal and get more information about the way you support farmers in Nigeria. Our poultry farm is in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Moderator
Thank you for reaching out and for your commitment to supporting small farm owners in Nigeria. To register your poultry farm in Ibadan and access more details about the support available, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security recently launched the Nigerian Farmers’ Soil Health Scheme (NFSHCS) portal here: https://nfshcs.agriculture.gov.ng.
This platform is currently registering farmers and provides information on how the government is supporting sustainable farming practices and soil health across Nigeria.