By: John Bassey, Kebbi.
The Kebbi State Government has flagged off the free distribution of agricultural inputs to about 120,000 farmers across the state ahead of the 2026 wet farming season.
According to the statement signed by Comrade Ahmed Idris CPS Kebbi state, the intervention comprises 110 truckloads of fertiliser and 100 metric tonnes of improved seeds aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and strengthening food security.
Governor of Kebbi State, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, launched the exercise in Birnin Kebbi on Wednesday, assuring that the inputs would be distributed free of charge and only to verified farmers.
He said the programme is being implemented under the Climate Change Adaptation Seed Support Programme and the Kaura Agricultural Development Agenda (KADAGE).
According to the governor, the initiative is designed to reduce production costs, enhance food security, and mitigate the effects of climate change on agriculture.
Describing farming as the backbone of Kebbi State’s economy, Idris noted that more than 80 per cent of the state’s population depends on agriculture for its livelihood.
He explained that the intervention was a direct response to the growing challenges posed by erratic rainfall, prolonged dry spells, flooding, and increasing pest infestations, all of which continue to threaten crop yields and food security.
“This support will help farmers manage climate risks, reduce production costs, and farm with greater confidence during the 2026 rainy season,” the governor said.
To prevent diversion and ensure transparency, Idris disclosed that 6,000 metric tonnes of NPK fertiliser would be distributed through the state’s 3,743 polling units.
He also announced the release of 100 metric tonnes of drought-tolerant and early-maturing millet and rice seeds under the third phase of the Climate Change Adaptation Seed Support Programme.
The governor said the seed varieties were carefully selected by agricultural experts for their resilience to unpredictable weather conditions and their capacity to deliver higher yields.
He explained that the input distribution forms part of the broader KADAGE initiative aimed at increasing agricultural productivity, improving farmers’ incomes, and ensuring sustainable food production.
Other components of the programme, he said, include the distribution of 5,000 power tillers and farm implements, the revival of the subsidised tractor-hire scheme, and the expansion of irrigation farming.
“So far, the state has distributed over 15,000 solar-powered water pumps, 20,000 petrol-powered pumps, and 10,000 LPG-powered pumps. We are also participating in the SPIN project to reduce dependence on rainfall,” he said.
Idris added that more agricultural extension workers have been deployed to promote climate-smart farming practices across rural communities, while security agencies have been directed to strengthen the protection of farmlands.
The governor warned beneficiaries against selling or diverting the farm inputs, stressing that anyone found culpable would be prosecuted.
He urged farmers to apply the inputs in line with the guidance of agricultural extension officers and called on traditional and community leaders to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability throughout the distribution process.
Governor Idris also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support for agricultural development at the state level and commended development partners for their contributions to the sector.
Speaking at the event, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Yakubu Bala-Tafida, said the government had constituted an annual fertiliser distribution committee comprising commissioners, lawmakers, special advisers, local government chairmen, traditional rulers, and security agencies.
According to him, the committee is mandated to ensure transparent and equitable distribution across the state’s 225 wards and 3,743 polling units, while ensuring that only genuine farmers benefit from the programme.
“The fertiliser is not for sale. It bears a unique logo and identification, and anyone caught diverting or selling it will face the full weight of the law,” Bala-Tafida warned.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Alhaji Shehu Mu’azu, said the distribution of 110 truckloads of fertiliser fulfils Governor Idris’ annual commitment under KADAGE.
He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to the free supply of agricultural inputs, expansion of dry-season farming, and climate-resilient agricultural practices to boost food production, enhance food security, and improve rural livelihoods.
