At least 10,000 farmers across the 16 local government areas of Kwara State will receive improved seeds, chemicals, and fertilizers from the state government to improve their yields this farming season.
The state governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq disclosed this in Ilorin, the state capital at the launch of the distribution of farm inputs to local farmers in the state.
He said the gesture was part of the administration’s efforts to encourage bumper harvest and promote food security.
The government had recently targeted 600,000 households, including smallholding farmers, in recent distribution of farm implements and other supports.
Govwrnor AbdulRazaq described farmers are the backbone of food security and sustainable economic growth.
“This administration is committed to addressing the challenges in the agricultural sector. Farmers are recognised as the backbone of food security and economic growth. Hence, a rigorous farmer registration process has been set up, ensuring that only genuine farmers benefit.
“The first batch of the Special Rice Intervention Programme assisted 3,400 real farmers with quality seeds, fertilizers, and agrochemicals, resulting in significant increases in rice production.
“With the second phase (FADAMA NG CARES), 600,000 beneficiaries are receiving support, including boats, seeds, agrochemicals, power tillers, and grinding machines. This initiative aims to make agricultural productivity more robust and widespread,” the governor said.
AbdulRazaq said the government is also committed to boosting livestock productivity and market access through its Livestock Productivity and Enhancement Scheme (LPRES) campaigns in the state.
“By supporting farmers, food security is ensured, jobs created, and economic growth is sustained,” he added.
The state’s Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Toyosi Thomas-Adebayo, for her part, said there are a lot of programmes the government has embarked upon to support farmers and improve farm yields in the state.
