In a strategic move to enhance food security and support local farmers, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has inaugurated a multi-stakeholder committee responsible for overseeing the transparent and efficient distribution of over 300 truckloads of fertilizer to 100,000 farmers across the state. The initiative, which aims to improve agricultural productivity, is part of the government’s broader efforts to address rural development challenges and promote sustainable food systems.
The Committee, according to a statement released by Alhaji Murtala Dabo, the Commissioner of Agriculture, will include public and private sector representatives, civil society organizations, traditional and religious leaders, labour unions, security agencies, and anti-corruption bodies. This diverse group is tasked with ensuring the program’s credibility and local ownership at the grassroots level.
Alhaji Murtala emphasized that this approach underscores the state’s commitment to an inclusive agricultural transformation, aiming to increase productivity and strengthen the agricultural value chain. He further explained, “The initiative is part of the government’s effort to enhance food security, improve rural livelihoods, and boost agricultural productivity across communities.”
Two Categories of Beneficiaries
The fertilizer distribution will target two main categories of farmers. Smallholder farmers will receive two bags of free fertilizer, while commercial farmers will benefit from a subsidized input program. Commercial farmers will have access to fertilizer at a 40% subsidized rate, making it more affordable and helping to reduce input costs that hinder agribusiness expansion.
“The intervention is designed to encourage agribusiness expansion, support job creation efforts in the agricultural value chain, and strengthen price competitiveness in the commodity market,” said Alhaji Murtala. He added that these measures aim to reduce the financial burden on farmers, enabling them to increase productivity and contribute more effectively to the local economy.
Additional Support: Crop Risk Insurance Scheme
In addition to fertilizer distribution, the Kaduna State Government is also rolling out a crop risk insurance scheme for 100,000 smallholder farmers. This scheme aims to protect farmers from the financial losses caused by pest infestations, crop diseases, and extreme weather conditions, which are becoming increasingly common due to climate change.
Alhaji Murtala highlighted that the insurance initiative is an integral part of the state’s efforts to build a resilient agricultural system that can withstand the impacts of climate change. “This scheme is part of the administration’s broader commitment to building a resilient and secure agricultural system,” he stated.
A Holistic Approach to Agricultural Development
The fertilizer distribution program and crop insurance scheme are part of a wider strategy by the Kaduna State government to improve agricultural sustainability and empower farmers. Governor Uba Sani’s administration has consistently prioritized agricultural reform, recognizing its pivotal role in securing food systems, creating jobs, and fostering economic growth across rural communities.
As the state continues to invest in these initiatives, it seeks to serve as a model for other states in Nigeria, showing how targeted interventions can foster agricultural resilience, alleviate poverty, and ensure food security for future generations.
