By Umar Akilu Majeri, Dutse
The National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), in collaboration with the Jigawa State Government, has commenced the distribution of thousands of bags of fertiliser to farmers across the state as part of efforts to boost agricultural productivity and enhance food security
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Speaking at the flag-off ceremony held at the Alyuma Store in Shuwarin, the Deputy Governor of Jigawa State, Engr. Aminu Usman Gumel, who represented Governor Umar Namadi, urged beneficiaries to utilise the fertiliser for farming rather than selling it.
The event attracted thousands of farmers from the state’s 27 local government areas. It also drew the attention of traders from neighbouring states who gathered at the venue in anticipation of purchasing the fertiliser from beneficiaries.
The deputy governor warned farmers against diverting or selling the fertiliser, stressing that it was provided solely to improve agricultural production.
“This fertiliser is meant to support your farming activities and increase crop yields. It is not for sale. Anyone found diverting or selling the fertiliser will face appropriate sanctions,” he said.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Alhaji Mustapha Namadi Ringim, said the free fertiliser was allocated to Jigawa State by the Federal Government through the National Agricultural Development Fund to support farmers during the current farming season.
He reiterated that the fertiliser must not be sold, warning that any beneficiary caught violating the directive would be dealt with in accordance with the law.
According to him, the state government has ensured that the Federal Government’s allocation reaches selected farmers across the state to enhance food production.
Ringim added that, beyond the free allocation, the Jigawa State Government has also made various blends of fertiliser available to farmers at subsidised rates to further support agricultural activities.
He said the administration remains committed to providing farmers with the necessary inputs and other forms of assistance required to improve productivity and strengthen food security across the state.
The commissioner also called on political opponents of the administration to avoid what he described as unfounded criticism, insisting that the government remains focused on implementing programmes that directly benefit the people, particularly farmers.
