By Peter Omopo
Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has distributed fertilisers and other agricultural inputs to support dry-season farming across the state.
The distribution was officially launched on Thursday at the Fadama III facility of the Ministry of Agriculture in Gusau.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the inputs were described as critical to improving crop yields, reducing post-harvest losses and promoting sustainable farming practices.
According to the statement, items distributed include 3,920 bags of NPK fertiliser, 1,956 bags of Urea fertiliser, 3,920 litres of herbicide, 1,956 litres of insecticide and 3,920 sachets of seed-dressing chemicals.
Speaking at the event, Lawal said the programme forms part of his administration’s efforts to increase agricultural productivity, strengthen food security and improve livelihoods in the state. He described farming as the backbone of the economy and stressed the responsibility of government to provide farmers with the resources needed to succeed.
The governor noted that previous farm input support initiatives under the NG-CARES programme had benefited tens of thousands of smallholder farmers, who received improved seeds, agrochemicals and agronomic guidance.
He urged beneficiaries to make judicious use of the inputs and expressed optimism that the interventions would drive sustainable agricultural development and reduce reliance on food imports.
Lawal also acknowledged the security challenges facing the state, assuring that his administration would continue to strengthen community security while supporting farmers. He pledged sustained collaboration with development partners and the Federal Government to ensure effective implementation of agricultural and other developmental programmes in Zamfara.
