The Kaduna State Government, in partnership with the African Union Development Agency–New Partnership for Africa’s Development (AUDA–NEPAD) Nigeria, has empowered about 400 smallholder farmers with agricultural inputs as part of its ongoing efforts to boost food security and promote rural development.
Governor Uba Sani reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to empowering farmers and enhancing agricultural productivity across Kaduna. He described agriculture as the backbone of the state’s economy and a key driver of inclusive growth. The event, which took place at the Arewa House, marked another milestone in Kaduna’s agricultural transformation drive.
Governor Sani stated that the partnership between the state and AUDA–NEPAD reflects his administration’s focus on people-centred development and aligns with Kaduna’s broader vision of building a food-secure, resilient, and inclusive economy. “Smallholder farmers form the backbone of our agricultural system,” he said. “Supporting them means strengthening our economy, securing our food supply, and uplifting thousands of households.”
He added that agriculture remains a top priority under his leadership, with over ₦10 billion allocated to the sector in the 2025 budget. The Governor also noted that Kaduna is currently the only state in Nigeria that has met the targets set by the Malabo Declaration on agricultural investment.
Hon. Jabir Abdullahi Tsauni, Chief Executive Officer of AUDA–NEPAD Nigeria, commended the Kaduna State Government for providing counterpart funding that made it possible to expand the empowerment programme to all 23 local government areas. He revealed that 345 smallholder farmers have already been trained in good agronomic practices and climate-smart agriculture, including backyard farming for tomatoes, sweet peppers, maize, cowpeas, and soybeans. “These inputs are not just farming materials; they are instruments of hope and productivity,” he said.
Tsauni noted that the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, both of which prioritise inclusive and climate-resilient agriculture as the foundation for sustainable prosperity.
Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon. Murtala Dabo, stated that the programme demonstrates Kaduna’s determination to make agriculture a viable enterprise rather than just a way of life. He also commended AUDA–NEPAD for its collaboration and assured that Kaduna will remain a reliable partner for development agencies in promoting agricultural innovation and farmer empowerment.