The Yobe State government yesterday flagged off the distribution of agricultural inputs to farmers as part of its multi-billion naira empowerment scheme.
The exercise, targeting 53 wards across the state, commenced in five local government areas in Zone A. The initiative aims to boost food production and create jobs in the sector.
The distribution exercise commenced in Yunusari, Geidam, Bursari, Tarmuwa, and Gulani, targeting 1,590 farmers. Once this phase is completed, the programme will extend to Zones B and C, ensuring that farmers across the state benefit.
In this initial distribution, over 1,060 male farmers in the five local government areas received various agricultural tools and supplies free of charge. These included 159 hand ploughs, 159 powered hand tillers, 212 multi-purpose threshers, 530 solar-powered pumps, 3,180 bags of fertilizer, 530 hand push planters, 1,060 knapsack sprayers, 10,600 kilograms of assorted seeds, and 10,600 litres of agrochemicals.
Meanwhile, 530 female beneficiaries were each given three small ruminants to support their livestock farming.
Governor Mai Mala Buni announced that the empowerment program will benefit over 5,300 farmers across the 178 wards in the 17 Local Government Areas, leading to enhanced agricultural productivity, self-sufficiency in food production, and economic growth.
He cautioned against the misuse of tractors, vehicles, and motorcycles provided for extension services and equipment, instructing security agencies to confiscate and apprehend individuals attempting to transport the equipment out of the state.
Beneficiaries of the empowerment program lauded the governor for this move, acknowledging his support in enabling farmers to cultivate their own food and improve their economic well-being.
Babagana Ali, a beneficiary from Yunusari, expressed that the support will allow him to expand his farmland and increase food production.
In his remarks, Musa Aliyu from Geidam mentioned that he is currently farming during the rainy season and plans to engage in irrigation, thanks to the equipment provided.
Hajj Fanna Modu from Bursari was overjoyed upon receiving the livestock, saying, “Thank you, Governor Buni. I am confident my grandchildren will benefit from these goats.”