BIRNIN KEBBI — In a bold move to deepen food security and cushion hardship, Governor Nasir Idris has flagged off a massive distribution of farming inputs and Ramadan palliatives under the Kaura Agricultural Development Agenda 2026.
The historic ceremony, held at the Haliru Abdu Stadium, drew farmers, traditional rulers, and stakeholders from across Kebbi State.
Describing the initiative as a “major milestone” in Kebbi’s agricultural transformation drive, Governor Idris said his administration remains unwavering in its commitment to empowering farmers, increasing productivity, and strengthening food security across the state and beyond.
“Our sustained investment in free farm inputs, machinery and extension services shows clearly that agriculture remains the backbone of our economy,” he declared.
Rice Output Soars
The governor revealed that Kebbi recorded steady growth in rice production, with output rising from 3.05 million tons in 2023 to 3.15 million tons in 2024, while projections for 2025 remain strong — reinforcing Kebbi’s status as one of Nigeria’s leading rice-producing states.
He also officially launched the 2026 dry season farming programme, noting that Kebbi uniquely operates two production cycles within a single dry season to maximize yield.
Massive Input Rollout
Under the new distribution, farmers across the state will receive:
2,000 solar-powered water pumps
5,000 power tillers
5,500 knapsack sprayers
24,000 litres of herbicides
70,000 litres of liquid organic fertilizer
5,000 tons of assorted fertilizers
Governor Idris emphasized that beneficiaries were carefully selected in collaboration with traditional rulers and farmers’ groups, warning that substitutions or diversions would not be tolerated.
Ramadan Relief for 6,500 Tons
In a parallel intervention, the state government is distributing 6,500 tons of assorted grains — rice, maize and millet — as Ramadan palliatives to ease hardship among vulnerable residents.
The governor issued a stern warning against diversion, declaring that no political office holder — including local government chairmen, commissioners or lawmakers — should tamper with items meant for the grassroots.
“The era of cornering public items is over,” he said firmly, adding that security agencies have been directed to arrest anyone found selling the distributed inputs.
Governor Idris reaffirmed that his administration remains people-oriented and committed to reducing hardship while building a resilient agricultural economy for Kebbi State.
COV: Sani Dutsinma
About The Author
