The Kebbi State Government has commenced the massive distribution of farming inputs and Ramadan palliatives under the Kaura Agricultural Development Agenda, marking a major step in its drive to strengthen food production and support vulnerable households across the state.

The flag-off ceremony took place at the Haliru Abdu Stadium in Birnin Kebbi, where thousands of farmers and community representatives gathered to witness the rollout. The initiative combines large-scale agricultural support with targeted Ramadan relief, reinforcing the administration’s focus on both productivity and social welfare.

Governor Nasir Idris described the distribution as a defining moment in the state’s agricultural transformation agenda. According to him, the Kaura Agricultural Development Agenda is centered on empowering farmers with the tools and resources needed to increase output, improve incomes, and enhance food security at both state and national levels.

As part of the exercise, the government is distributing 2,000 solar-powered water pumps to support irrigation, particularly for dry season farming. In addition, 5,000 power tillers are being provided to ease land preparation, while 5,500 sprayers will help farmers manage weeds and pests more effectively. To complement these tools, 24,000 liters of herbicides, 70,000 liters of liquid organic fertilizer, and 5,000 tons of assorted fertilizers are being supplied to boost soil fertility and crop yield.

The Governor also announced the commencement of the 2026 dry season farming programme, explaining that Kebbi operates two production cycles within a single dry season in order to maximize output. This approach, he said, has contributed to the steady rise in rice production across the state. Annual rice output increased from 3.05 million tons in 2023 to 3.15 million tons in 2024, with projections for 2025 remaining strong. Kebbi continues to rank among Nigeria’s leading rice-producing states, while other staple crops have also recorded growth under the current administration.

Beyond agricultural inputs, the government is distributing 6,500 tons of assorted grains, including rice, maize, and millet, as Ramadan palliatives. The measure is aimed at cushioning the impact of economic hardship on poor and vulnerable residents during the holy month. By combining farm support with food relief, the initiative addresses both immediate household needs and long-term production goals.

Governor Idris emphasized that beneficiaries were carefully selected in collaboration with traditional rulers and recognized farmers’ groups to ensure transparency and fairness. He warned that substitutions would not be tolerated and directed security agencies to arrest anyone found diverting or selling the distributed items. He further instructed the distribution committee to prevent political office holders or intermediaries from cornering items meant for grassroots farmers and families.

Speaking at the event, the Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, commended the initiative and described Kebbi as a state where agriculture defines both the economy and daily life. He noted that more than 80 percent of the population is engaged in farming and related activities, underscoring the importance of sustained investment in the sector.

The Minister added that food security remains central to national stability and economic resilience, stating that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has positioned agriculture as a strategic national priority. He praised Kebbi’s evolution from primary cultivation to structured value addition, highlighting the presence of major rice mills that process paddy into finished products for national markets.

With the commencement of this massive distribution, Kebbi State is reinforcing its commitment to agricultural expansion, farmer empowerment, and social support, positioning the Kaura Agricultural Development Agenda as a key pillar of its development strategy.