Gov. Abba Kabir-Yusuf of Kano flagged off the distribution of 79,200 bags of subsidised fertiliser for smallholder farmers in the state.
The governor spoke during the exercise at Alyuma Fertiliser and Chemicals Limited in Madobi Local Government Area of the state.
Yusuf said that the initiative was not only aimed at distributing fertiliser but also at planting the seeds of self-reliance, economic prosperity, and collective dignity among the people.
“We are here to renew a solemn pledge we made to our people that under this administration, agriculture shall rise again.
“Each of the 44 local government areas will receive three trucks of fertiliser to be sold at a subsidised rate of 50 per cent to newly registered stakeholder farmers,” he said.
Gov. Yusuf explained that the initiative was designed to lower the cost of cultivation, increase yield, and boost farmers’ income.
He noted that his administration’s investment in agriculture went beyond fertiliser distribution, adding that there had been improved access to farmlands and irrigation facilities.
“Over the last few years, we have successfully rehabilitated major irrigation schemes in 11 local government areas, with 1,250 hectares under development.
“The ongoing construction of a dam at Dan Soshiya in Kiru Local Government stands as a landmark in our quest for all-year round farming,”he said.
Yusuf stated that the interventions were part of a clear strategy to empower smallholder farmers who are the backbone of the food system, with a vision to transform agriculture into a wealth-creating sector capable of lifting thousands out of poverty.
He directed each local government chairman to immediately constitute a high-powered fertiliser distribution committee to identify, verify, and support only genuine farmers in order to ensure transparency and accountability.
“We will not tolerate diversion, favouritism, or exploitation in the process,” he warned, urging farmers to use the fertiliser wisely and productively.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Tajudeen Othman, said that the initiative was aimed at restoring the pride of farming, ensuring food security, and boosting the economic resilience of rural communities.
“We commend Gov. Kabir Yusuf’s foresight in prioritising agriculture as a pillar of sustainable development. To our farmers, we recognise your perseverance and pray this season brings abundant yield and renewed prosperity,”he prayed.
The Kano State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Dr Danjuma Mahmoud, described the initiative as timely, saying it would help ensure food availability and support farmers financially.
Similarly, the Chairman of the Association of Fadama Farmers in Madobi, Alhaji Umar Zara commended the state government for the gesture on behalf of the farmers.
In his remarks, the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II, represented by the District Head of Madobi, Baba Musa-Sale, lauded the government for prioritising farmers’ welfare.
Meanwhile, a contractor, Ali Yaro, the owner of Alyuma Fertiliser and Chemicals Limited, assured that delivery of the fertiliser to all the 44 local government areas would be completed by July 4.
NAN/Oyenike Oyeniyi