Sokoto State government has committed N2.4billion as counterpart funding for the World Bank NG-Cares assisted programme for the benefit of smallholder farmers in the state.
Governor Ahmed Aliyu disclosed this at a ceremony for the distribution of agricultural inputs to 1,180 smallholder farmers held at the premises of the Sokoto Agricultural Development Project.
He said the aim of the programme is to increase the number of farmers through collaborative efforts with the World Bank and other supporting partners.
The governor said smallholder farmers in Sokoto State have received various farming inputs, including, improved seeds, insecticide, and fertiliser, as well as goats and sheep.
“The N2.4 billion counterpart funding made available by the state government would make farmers increase their agricultural productivity and ensure food security in the state and the country at large.
“The inputs and other items would be distributed to the farmers for 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,” he said.
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 mechanised and business-driven agriculture.
He said government at all levels are making efforts in collaboration with security agencies to ensure that farmers in security flashpoints are able to cultivate their farmlands.
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