The Kebbi State Government has shown its commitment to bolstering agriculture by donating N70 million to rice and wheat farmers as part of efforts to boost paddy production, by purchasing improved seeds, and also to mitigate the impact of subsidy removal.
The development was made known by the state governor, Nasir Idris, during a meeting with the leadership of the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN) and Wheat Farmers Association of Nigeria (WFAN) in Binrin Kebbi.
He emphasized Kebbi’s reputation in rice and wheat production and pledged to sustain and enhance agricultural productivity in the state.
He highlighted his administration’s commitment to agriculture and its support for farmers through various services.
Governor Idris however, lauded Kebbi’s prominence in rice and wheat production, both within Nigeria and internationally. He expressed his administration’s dedication to maintaining this reputation.
The governor emphasized the importance of agriculture, especially in light of the fuel subsidy removal, while promising government assistance where necessary.
On his part, the RIFAN chairman, Alhaji Bello Barade, congratulated the governor on his election victory during the meeting.
He commended the governor for appointing two farmers as members of the State Executive Council, indicating the government’s willingness to involve farmers in decision-making.
Barade also mentioned that farmers in Kebbi cultivate crops three times a year, both during dry and wet seasons. He highlighted the association’s efforts to cultivate around 400 hectares of out-grower farms, costing an estimated N70 million, to improve access to quality rice seeds in the state. He appealed for additional support to boost agricultural productivity.
“The cultivation of 400 hectares out-grower farm in Bagudo Local Government Area, estimated to cost N70 million for distribution to the farmers,” he said.
Furthermore, the RIFAN’s National Financial Secretary, Alhaji Ibrahim Suru, advocated for a partnership with the state government to improve input supply to farmers.
He assured continued support for government policies and programs aimed at fostering sustainable social and economic development in the state.
