Governor Dauda Lawal has commenced the distribution of fertilizers, agricultural inputs, and farming equipment aimed at bolstering dry-season farming efforts throughout Zamfara State.
On Thursday, the governor officially kicked off the distribution at the Fadama III facility of the Ministry of Agriculture located in Gusau.
According to a statement released by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the inputs provided are crucial for enhancing crop yields, minimizing losses, and encouraging sustainable farming practices.
The statement highlighted that the farm inputs and tools distributed include 3,920 bags of NPK fertilizer, 1,956 bags of Urea fertilizer, 3,920 liters of herbicide, 1,956 liters of insecticide, and 3,920 sachets of seed-dressing chemicals.
In his address, Governor Lawal emphasized that this initiative is part of broader measures aimed at increasing agricultural productivity, improving food security, and uplifting the living standards of the people in Zamfara.
He noted, “It is widely recognized that agriculture forms the backbone of our economy, and we must ensure that farmers have access to the resources they require for success. The distribution of these fertilizers and equipment is designed to enhance dry-season farming across our nation, including in Zamfara.”
“Programs like NG-Cares have laid a strong foundation for the State Government to reach substantial achievements in the agricultural sector. Previous farm input initiatives focused on dry-season agriculture have benefitted tens of thousands of smallholder farmers, who have also had access to improved seeds, agrochemicals, and agronomic support.”
The governor encouraged farmers in Zamfara to take full advantage of this opportunity and to utilize the inputs judiciously.
“It is our sincere hope that these efforts will ignite sustainable agricultural progress not only in Zamfara State but across the country. Our government is committed to using these programs to ensure a stable food supply and lessen the nation's dependence on food imports.
“It is a well-known reality that many of our current challenges stem from issues related to security. Alongside providing our farmers with these resources, we will work to strengthen the security framework within our communities to fulfill our aims. We will continue to implement similar interventions and develop new policies to meet emerging challenges. Let us unite to secure our communities, increase our cultivation, and foster a prosperous Zamfara State.”
In conclusion, he acknowledged the contributions of development partners and the Federal Government of Nigeria towards the NG-CARES program, asserting that it has significantly enhanced agricultural yields, incomes, and food security by merging inputs with behavioral change factors such as seed adoption, advisory services, and peer education.
“We are dedicated to collaborating with you to ensure effective execution of developmental policies and programs initiated, particularly in the agricultural domain, for the overall progress of our beloved state.
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