Musa Na Allah Sokoto
Sokoto state Government has Committed 2.4 billion Naira as counterpart funding for the World Bank NG-Care assisted program for the benefit of smallholder farmers in the state.
Governor of the state Dr. Ahmed Aliyu disclosed this at a ceremony for the distribution of agricultural Inputs to 1180 smallholder farmers held yesterday at the premises of the Sokoto Agricultural Development Project.
He said the aim of the program is to increase the lots of farmers through collaborative efforts with the World Bank and other supporting partners.
According to him, smallholder farmers in Sokoto State have received various farming inputs, including, improved seeds, insecticide, and fertilizer, as well as Goats and Sheep.
While distributing the inputs, the governor highlighted that the 2.4 billion counterpart funding said to be available by the state government would make farmers increase their agricultural productivity and ensure food security in the state and the country at large.
He pointed out that the inputs and other items would be distributed to the farmers free, to encourage them to multiply their yields.
“The state will continue to support smallholder farmers with various inputs to encourage mechanized, large-scale agricultural production in the state”.
In his remarks, the guest of honour and Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Muhammadu Mera who flagged off the distribution, urged the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the farming inputs by engaging in mechanized and business-driven agriculture.
He said the government at all levels was making efforts in collaboration with security agencies to ensure that farmers in security flashpoints are able to cultivate their farmlands.
He said the 1180 farmers were selected from each of the 23 local government areas of the state to make a far-reaching impact on Agricultural productivity in the state.
The Emir commended Governor Ahmed Aliyu for the wonderful initiative, adding that the gesture would go a long way in boosting agricultural production and ensuring food security in the state, especially with the current rising cost of foodstuffs and other essential commodities.
