Bauchi Launches 2025 Irrigation Support, Distributes Free Seeds, Equipment

The Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has launched the 2025 irrigation support programme, which distributes free critical inputs and equipment to dry-season farmers. The programme aims to enhance food security and drive economic growth in the state.

The state government provided farmers with certified seeds, fertilizers, improved crop varieties, herbicides, pesticides, water pumps, irrigation equipment, power tillers, and other modern farm machinery, technical guidance and extension services to ensure effective utilisation of the resources.

Speaking at the launching ceremony held in Unguwar Datti, Zungur, Bauchi, yesterday, Governor Bala Mohammed reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening agriculture, empowering farmers, and ensuring food security.

Represented by his deputy, Muhammad Auwal Jatau, the governor emphasised the importance of utilising Bauchi’s fertile land and abundant natural resources to promote year-round farming, create economic opportunities, and combat food inflation.

He said: “Bauchi State has a strong tradition of supporting farmers during the rainy season by providing inputs and technical assistance. However, given the current national challenges including insecurity in major food-producing states and devastating floods that have destroyed farmlands there is an urgent need to expand our focus to dry-season farming.”

Governor Mohammed highlighted that the programme is not just about addressing immediate challenges but also about securing the state’s agricultural future. He noted that dry-season farming would boost food production, curb inflation, and provide essential inputs and modern equipment to enhance productivity.

“This distribution is not just about supporting farmers but about transforming agriculture in Bauchi State. By introducing more mechanised equipment such as power tillers, we are reducing the burden of manual labor and making farming more productive, modern, and profitable,” he added.

He called on traditional rulers, community leaders, and stakeholders to encourage farmers to participate actively in the programme. He also urged private investors and financial institutions to collaborate with the state government in expanding agricultural mechanization, improving credit access, and enhancing market opportunities.

“This launch is a strategic step towards transforming Bauchi’s agricultural sector. It is part of our broader vision to move from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture, ensuring higher productivity, better farmer incomes, and a stronger state economy.”

The State Commissioner for Agriculture, Iliyasu Aliyu Gital, commended the governor for providing the necessary support to the ministry for the successful implementation of agricultural programmes under the “My Bauchi Project.”

According to him, the increasing importance of dry-season farming is evident, especially in the face of climate change and other challenges affecting agriculture.

“Water used to be a major limiting factor, but with improved irrigation techniques, we have reduced water requirements by nearly 50%. I must appreciate His Excellency for making it possible for us to key into this strategy because we are determined to eliminate hunger and food insecurity from Bauchi State,” he added.

He highlighted that modern farming techniques have enabled farmers to cultivate crops despite the effects of climate change.

The commissioner revealed that the governor has approved a complete overhaul and expansion of the Bauchi Fertilizer Blending Company to reduce reliance on external brands.

He announced that the ministry has trained 1,000 youths across the 20 local government areas of Bauchi State in modern farming techniques and agricultural value chains. While some trainees have successfully established businesses, others from underprivileged backgrounds are still struggling to start.

He disclosed that Governor Bala Mohammed has approved starter packs for all 1,000 trainees and has directed the ministry to train another batch of 1,000 youths.

“This initiative ensures that young people can become self-reliant and successful without necessarily depending on civil service jobs,” he stated.