The Kwara State Government in North Central Nigeria has began the distribution of fertilisers to support farmers engaged in dry season cultivation across the state, as part of efforts to strengthen year-round farming.
The State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr Afees Alabi, who flagged off the distribution in Ilorin, explained that the initiative is designed to ease the burden of rising agricultural input costs.
Dr Alabi said the fertiliser distribution was carefully structured to ensure farmers remain productive despite prevailing market challenges.
He also warned against the sale or diversion of the inputs, vowing that anyone found culpable would face the full wrath of the law.
He noted that sustaining continuous cultivation is essential to stabilising food availability and strengthening farmers’ resilience across the state.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the present administration’s commitment to practical, farmer-centred interventions that promote continuous farming, expand production capacity, and position agriculture as a key pillar of economic recovery and inclusive growth in the state.
He also reiterated the State Government’s resolve to continue implementing sustainable agricultural interventions that promote rural development, economic recovery, and a resilient food system.
The State FADAMA Programme Project Coordinator, Dr Isiaka Busari, represented by the Head of Technical, Abdulmalik Zubairu, commended the State Government for its leadership and effective collaboration, noting that the timely intervention reflects the state’s dedication to impactful programme implementation and service delivery to farmers.
One of the beneficiaries, Soliu Yahaya, expressed appreciation to the state government for its sustained support to the agricultural sector.
He described the intervention as a strong motivation for farmers to intensify off-season farming, noting that improved access to fertilisers would enhance productivity and sustain livelihoods.
Farmers across the 16 Local Government Areas of Kwara State benefited from the fertiliser distribution, which is expected to support the cultivation of key crops and contribute to improved food availability across the state.