By: Nafiu Toyin Abdulqadri.
In a significant move to revitalize the agricultural sector, Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has launched the distribution of 500 trucks of fertilizer, totaling 15,000 metric tonnes, to support smallholder farmers across the state.
At the inauguration ceremony held at Murtala Square in Kaduna, Governor Sani announced that 240,000 bags of fertilizer will be provided free of charge to 120,000 smallholder farmers, with each farmer receiving two bags.
The governor emphasized the importance of agriculture to the state’s economy, noting that it accounts for 42.81% of the state’s Gross Domestic Product and employs 42% of the total workforce.
This initiative demonstrates the state government’s commitment to empowering farmers and re-energizing the agricultural sector, with a significant allocation of N22.54 billion to agriculture in the 2024 budget.
Kaduna State is a leading player in Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, ranking first in ginger production and second in soybeans production. The governor expressed his delight at the launch, stating that it marks a significant milestone in the journey towards revitalizing the agricultural sector and ensuring food security.