By Gbenga Akingbule.
Borno State Ag Governor, Umar Usman Kadafur on Tuesday flagged- off the sales of 100 trucks of fertilizers at a 50% subsidized rate to farmers across the 27 Local Government Areas of the state to fight food insecurity.
Gatekeepers News reports that the aim of the distribution according to the Ag. Governor, is to ensure food sufficiency in all parts of the state.
Hon Kadafur made the disclosure during the flagging-off ceremony held at the Farm Centre in Maiduguri, Borno state capital.
According to Kadafur, “This programme underscores government commitment in the critical sector of agriculture to not only improve agricultural productivity but also food sufficiency in the state.
“The availability of quality fertilizers plays a critical role in ensuring bountiful yields and healthy crops. Today, as we distribute these fertilisers, we are not just providing essential nutrients for the soil, but we are investing in the future of our agricultural sector and the prosperity of our nation,” Kadafur said.
The Ag governor stated that the state government has accorded the agricultural sector the requisite attention with a view of fighting food insecurity and making food available for all Borno people and having enough to sell to other states.
Kadafur therefore urged the farmers to make good use of the opportunity of the 50% discounted rate given to them by the state governor, Prof Babagana Zulum and warned them not to sell the fertilisers at the open market.
The Chief of Party (USAID) /Principal Specialist of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) Mr Prakasah Kant Silwal on behalf of his organisation donated 17 metric tons of certified seed to support Borno farmers.
“We are here to support the Borno State government for excellent agricultural transformation,” Silwal said.
