Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, and Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, have both launched significant fertilizer distribution initiatives aimed at empowering farmers and strengthening food security in their respective states.

In Kaduna, Governor Sani flagged off the distribution of 500 trucks of fertilizer, totaling 15,000 metric tonnes, to smallholder farmers across the 23 Local Government Areas. The initiative, which was launched at Murtala Square, will see 240,000 bags of fertilizer distributed free of charge to 120,000 farmers. This effort is part of Kaduna State’s broader commitment to revitalizing its agricultural sector, which contributes 42.81% to the state’s GDP and employs 42% of its workforce. The state has allocated N22.54 billion to agriculture in its 2024 budget, reflecting a significant investment in ensuring food security and economic growth.

Meanwhile, in Ogun State, Governor Abiodun commenced the first phase of his administration’s fertilizer distribution program, targeting 12,000 farmers. The initial phase will benefit 7,000 farmers, with a focus on various farming categories, including cassava, rice, and maize.

Governor Abiodun highlighted the growing global challenge of food scarcity and emphasized the importance of supporting the agriculture sector to boost crop yields and ensure food supply. The state has implemented several reforms, including the allocation of agricultural lands to investors and the empowerment of farmers through the Ogun N-CARES project and the Value Chain Development Programme.

Both governors stressed the critical role of agriculture in their states’ economies and urged farmers to utilize the fertilizers efficiently to maximize productivity and strengthen the agricultural value chain. These initiatives represent a collective resolve to address food insecurity and empower farmers to improve their livelihoods.