In a major move aimed at reviving agricultural productivity across the state, the Zamfara State Government has commenced the distribution of 59,205 bags of fertilizer along with other essential farm inputs to thousands of local farmers. The initiative, which is part of the administration’s broader agricultural intervention programme, is designed to cushion the impact of rising production costs and ensure food security within the region.
The distribution exercise, which took place earlier this week, was flagged off by top government officials and key stakeholders in the state’s agricultural sector. According to the state government, the intervention includes not just fertilizer, but also improved seedlings, herbicides, pesticides, and farming tools, all targeted at supporting both dry and wet season farming across various local government areas.
Governor Dauda Lawal, who has consistently emphasized agriculture as a cornerstone of his economic blueprint for Zamfara, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to empowering rural farmers and repositioning the state as a major player in Nigeria’s agro-economy. He stressed that the gesture was not only to boost crop yield but also to tackle hunger, poverty, and unemployment in the grassroots.
The governor noted that the 59,205 bags of fertilizer would be equitably distributed to genuine farmers, with a focus on transparency and accountability. He warned against hoarding or diversion of the inputs, stating that any official or individual found guilty of sabotaging the effort would face the full weight of the law.
Agricultural experts in the state have welcomed the development, describing it as timely, especially in light of the current economic challenges facing the country. Many farmers expressed optimism that the support would greatly enhance their output this season, as the soaring prices of fertilizer and agro-chemicals had previously hindered their farming capacity.
The intervention aligns with the federal government’s call on states to take proactive measures in addressing food inflation and promoting local production, especially as Nigeria continues to grapple with the economic aftermath of subsidy removal and global supply chain disruptions.
Zamfara, known for its vast arable land and potential for large-scale farming, is expected to witness a significant boost in agricultural activities following the intervention. The state government has assured that this will be a continuous effort, with plans already underway to introduce more mechanized support and irrigation systems to improve all-year-round farming.