News in Brief:
– Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum announced a 50% subsidy on petrol prices for farmers in insurgency-affected areas.
– This initiative, coupled with the distribution of farm inputs and investments in irrigation infrastructure, aims to support the recovery of the agricultural sector and improve the livelihoods of displaced farmers.
In a bid to support farmers recovering from years of insurgency, the Borno State Government has announced a 50% subsidy on petrol prices.
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum revealed this during the flag-off ceremony for the distribution of farm inputs to over 5,000 displaced farmers in Bama town on Friday. He acknowledged the rising cost of fuel as a major obstacle for farmers, particularly those engaged in irrigation.
“A litre of petrol, currently selling between N1,000 and N1,200 in Maiduguri, will be sold at ₦600 to farmers for irrigation,” he stated. He added that this initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on farmers in areas heavily impacted by the Boko Haram insurgency.
Comprehensive farm input distribution
Meantime, the distribution ceremony witnessed the provision of essential farm inputs to support farmers in their recovery efforts. These included:
- 2,000 bags of blended NPK fertiliser
- 1,000 water pumps
- 620 gasoline pumps
- 380 solar water pumps
- 1,000 sprayers
- 800 rolls of 2-inch flexible hose
- 1,000 litres of pesticides and seeds
Investing in irrigation infrastructure
Furthermore, Governor Zulum revealed his administration’s commitment to improving irrigation infrastructure. He highlighted the construction of over 100 tube wells and announced the approval for an additional 250 to enhance agricultural productivity.
Additionally, during a visit to Darajama and Goniri villages, Governor Zulum expressed satisfaction with the ongoing reconstruction efforts while reiterating his administration’s commitment to resettling displaced communities.
He recognised the crucial support provided by the federal government in these endeavours.
Analysts opine that this comprehensive package of fuel subsidies, farm input distribution, and infrastructure development is proof of the Borno State Government’s commitment to supporting the recovery of the agricultural sector and improving the livelihoods of farmers affected by years of conflict.
