I have distributed free fertilizer for three tears — Uba Sani

Governor Launches Fertilizer Distribution for Smallholder Farmers in Kaduna

KADUNA, Nigeria — Governor Uba Sani has inaugurated the distribution of 500 trucks of free fertilizers and tractors to 150,000 smallholder farmers across the 23 local government areas of Kaduna State. This program marks the third consecutive year of the initiative.

In August 2022, Governor Sani distributed 400 trucks of fertilizers at no cost to 100,000 smallholder farmers, with each farmer receiving two bags. Earlier this year, he also oversaw the largest fertilizer distribution in the state’s history, which included more than 500 trucks and various farming inputs for dry-season cultivation.

Speaking at the ceremony held at Murtala Mohammed Square on Saturday, Sani described the fertilizer program as “one of the most extensive support initiatives undertaken by any subnational government in Nigeria.” He emphasized that the state government aims to mitigate rising production costs to avoid reduced cultivation and greater food insecurity.

The Governor recounted advice to sell fertilizer at subsidized prices, stating that if the commodity is purchased at 56,000 Naira per bag, it would be offered to farmers at 20,000 Naira. However, he noted that this cost is often beyond the reach of many smallholder farmers. He expressed concern that larger farmers could buy the commodity and resell it at inflated prices, undermining the purpose of the subsidy.

Agriculture constitutes a significant part of Kaduna State’s economy, contributing approximately 43% of the state’s gross domestic product and employing between 60% and 80% of the active workforce. The Governor praised the prevailing peace in the region, which has allowed farmers to return to their fields, and credited cooperation from residents and support from President Bola Tinubu for reclaiming 5,000 hectares of farmland.

Sani highlighted the state’s advantages, including its vast land and favorable agro-ecological zones, which support food security and employment opportunities. He noted that Kaduna is a leading producer of maize, tomatoes, and ginger, stating, “Agriculture is not merely an economic sector; it intersects with food security, industrial development, and social stability.”

Since taking office in 2023, the administration increased the agricultural budget from 1.48 billion Naira to 23.40 billion Naira in 2024, with plans to allocate over 100 billion Naira for agriculture and food security in the 2026 budget, surpassing the 10% target set by the Malabo Declaration.

“The achievements in agriculture owe much to the strong support from the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Sani stated. He underscored the administration’s commitment to investing throughout the agricultural value chain rather than just in fertilizer distribution.

The Governor stressed the need for modernization in agriculture, stating that mechanization is critical for competitiveness in the 21st century. He also mentioned investments in livestock development, veterinary services, and agricultural insurance, which have benefited over 100,000 farmers by protecting them against environmental and market shocks.

Additionally, Kaduna State is enhancing rural infrastructure by improving roads to connect farming communities with markets, thereby reducing post-harvest losses. Sani announced plans for a Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone, in partnership with the Federal Government and the African Development Bank, to foster agricultural value addition.

To ensure compliance with international standards, the state is also establishing the Africa Quality Assurance Centre, aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of agricultural products in regional and global markets under the African Continental Free Trade Area.

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