Over the weekend, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum launched the distribution of subsidised fertilisers and free farm inputs to support vulnerable farmers for the 2025 wet farming season and Firgi farming activities.
The flag-off took place at the Fertiliser Blending Company, Farm Centre in Maiduguri.
During the event, Governor Zulum announced that 75 trucks of fertiliser would be sold at a 50% subsidised rate to smallholder farmers, returnees in resettled areas, women, youths, and other vulnerable groups across the state’s 27 Local Government Areas.
He explained that the subsidy was part of a broader agricultural policy under Pillar Two of Borno State’s 25-Year Development Plan and 10-Year Strategic Transformation Initiative.
“I have approved the sale of fertilisers at half the market price to ensure they are affordable, accessible, and truly beneficial to our farmers,” Zulum stated.
Governor Babagana Zulum explained that the first phase of the initiative focuses on the subsidised distribution of two types of fertiliser: Wet Blend and Dry Blend. The Wet Blend, a liquid formulation, will be allocated to areas facing higher security risks, as its liquid nature makes it less susceptible to misuse. Meanwhile, the Dry Blend, which comes in granular form and is easier to store, will be sent to more stable and secure regions.
He noted that this distribution approach serves both agricultural efficiency and security purposes, helping to prevent fertilisers from being diverted for unintended or unsafe uses.
Governor Zulum stressed the importance of fertiliser access in revitalising agricultural livelihoods. He highlighted its role in improving soil health, boosting crop productivity, lowering food costs, strengthening food security at the household level, and decreasing reliance on imported food.
“Agriculture is a foundation for peace and development. Food security is a key component of national security. Our government remains committed to supporting farmers, safeguarding our communities, and rebuilding the local economy through sustainable agricultural growth,” the governor stated.
Governor Babagana Zulum issued a stern warning against the diversion of subsidised fertilisers, stressing that such actions pose serious security threats. He pointed out that certain fertiliser components could potentially be misused for criminal purposes, a risk the government is committed to eliminating.
To prevent this, the governor announced that all fertilisers will now be closely monitored each batch will be tracked from its origin to its final destination. Only Wet Blend fertilisers will be distributed in high-risk areas, while proxy purchases are strictly banned. Every beneficiary must undergo proper verification.
He further directed community and traditional leaders to take active responsibility in overseeing fair and transparent distribution within their jurisdictions.
Additionally, the governor declared that the movement of fertilisers will require formal clearance, and all agro-dealers must be registered, thoroughly vetted, and subject to continuous monitoring. Anyone found hoarding, diverting, or illegally reselling fertilisers will face strict legal consequences.
“Fertilisers must be used solely for agricultural purposes, nothing more. Your cooperation is essential in advancing our goals of food security and public safety,” Governor Zulum concluded.
Governor Babagana Zulum expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, and development partners for their significant support to the Borno State Government.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Bawu Musami, reaffirmed the State Government’s dedication to achieving food self-sufficiency, empowering its citizens, and driving economic recovery through agriculture. He highlighted the impressive results achieved from government support to farmers in Baga and Monguno.
According to the commissioner, over 12,000 smallholder farmers, including resettled families, women, and youth, were provided with improved cowpea seeds, agrochemicals, and financial support for farming practices. Despite challenges such as early rainfall withdrawal, farmers in the two communities recorded cowpea yields worth over ₦3.1 billion.
“These interventions have not only empowered our farmers but have also demonstrated the vast potential of agriculture to transform our local economy,” Bawu added.
