The Kaduna State Government is set to launch a crop risk insurance scheme for 100,000 smallholder farmers, while also distributing 400 trucks of fertilizer free of charge across the state. This development is part of the state’s broader plan to improve food security, increase rural incomes, and promote inclusive agricultural growth.
At a flag-off event attended by Governor Uba Sani, his deputy, and senior government officials, the state government began distributing the fertilizers to farmers in all 23 local government areas. Each farmer is expected to receive two bags of fertilizer at no cost. The initiative follows the 2024 distribution of 500 trucks of fertilizer, also provided free to farmers.
Commissioner of Agriculture, Murtala Dabo, described the move as a continuation of interventions aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and reaching underserved communities.
He stated, “The remarkable increase in voluntary allocation to the sector over the past two years, the bulk reform and the practical support of small holders and commercial farmers alike reflect the clear direction administration is taken towards building a modern productive agricultural economy.”
Dabo added that the state’s efforts include increased access to inputs, mechanization, rural infrastructure development, and support for marketing systems. He also emphasized plans underway for a major project in the agro-industrial processing zone and the establishment of a quality assurance center to improve value chain development.
“Today’s event is one of many interventions designed to empower our farmers, especially those in the most rural and underserved communities. From increased access to inputs and mechanization to rural infrastructure development blocking development for improved farm market and the groundwork being made for major project in the Agra industrial processing zone and the quality assurance center the momentum is strong and the direction will be very in prioritizing agriculture as the key driver of inclusive growth. food security and rural prosperity,” Dabo explained.
The Kaduna State Government has budgeted over 74 billion naira for agriculture this year alone. According to Governor Sani, the current fertilizer distribution and insurance enrollment are part of a larger strategy that links smallholder farmers to agro-industrial processing hubs.
“This is not a standalone event,” he said. “It is a strategic and system-based approach to agricultural transformation involving farmers and agro-industrial processing zones. We are proud to maintain this farmer-first policy, particularly for our most vulnerable and underserved communities.”
In addition to fertilizer distribution, the state will enroll the 100,000 smallholder farmers into a crop risk insurance program to shield them from losses caused by climate-related diseases. This initiative addresses the rising challenges linked to climate change and aims to strengthen agricultural resilience.
Abubakar Mustapha, Co-Chairman of the Kaduna Elders Forum, highlighted improvements in security across the state. “We must thank God for an allowing environment that is now relative peace for farming to take place. Things were not that easy. People wanted to farm but no way because of insecurity. With the administration of Senator Uba Sani, we are witnessing fantastic and improved security situations.”
Kaduna has also launched a special agro-industrial processing zone to combine production, processing, and marketing in one location.
The focus is on key crops like maize, tomatoes, ginger, and soybean, where the state has continued to maintain leadership.