News in brief:
– Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani distributed 15,000 metric tonnes of free fertiliser to 120,000 small-holder farmers.
– The administration has allocated ₦22.54 billion to agriculture in 2024, emphasising its economic importance.
The Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani, has launched the distribution of 500 trucks of fertiliser (15,000 metric tonnes) to small-holder farmers across the state to boost agricultural productivity. This initiative, announced this Monday at Murtala Square, Kaduna, aims to support 120,000 small-holder farmers in all 23 Local Government Areas of the state.
Sani revealed that 240,000 bags of fertiliser would be distributed free of charge and each of the 120,000 farmers will receive two bags. This gesture is part of the state government’s broader plan to revitalise agriculture, which is a cornerstone of Kaduna’s economy.
Increased budget allocation for agriculture
Agriculture is vital to Kaduna’s economy, contributing 42.81% to the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employing 42% of the workforce. Kaduna is particularly known for its leading role in ginger production and its significant contributions to the production of maize, soybeans, tomatoes, sorghum, rice paddy, and cowpeas.
In a further demonstration of the government’s commitment to agriculture, the governor announced that ₦22.54 billion has been allocated to the agricultural sector in the 2024 budget. This is a substantial increase compared to previous years, reflecting the government’s determination to strengthen the sector.
Key initiatives to enhance food security
Governor Sani also highlighted several initiatives aimed at boosting food security and improving the livelihoods of rural communities. These include:
- Tallafin Noma Initiative: A program designed to provide financial and technical support to farmers.
- Solar-Powered Irrigation Pumps: To help farmers irrigate their crops more efficiently, especially in areas with limited water resources.
- Africa Quality Assurance Centre (AQAC) Project: This project ensures that agricultural products meet international quality standards, thereby increasing market access for local farmers.
The governor urged farmers to use the fertilisers responsibly and efficiently to maximise their harvests. Proper fertiliser use can significantly increase crop yields, leading to greater food security for both the state and the nation.
