Kaduna distributes farm inputs to 40,000 farmers

Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani on Monday launched the distribution of farm inputs, implements, and agro-processing equipment to 40,000 smallholder farmers as part of his ‘A Koma Gona’ (Back to Farm) initiative. 

The event, marking the celebration of his first year in office, took place in the Ikara Local Government Area, focusing on beneficiaries in the northern senatorial zone.

Governor Sani highlighted Kaduna’s status as the leading producer of ginger, maize, and tomatoes in Nigeria, but expressed concern over the post-harvest losses, particularly in perishable produce like tomatoes. 

To address this, the governor pledged to revisit the previously abandoned plan to establish a tomato-processing plant in Ikara, aimed at mitigating the losses faced by tomato farmers in the area.

Speaking to the farming community, Governor Sani emphasised the critical role of agriculture in the economy, providing employment and sustaining livelihoods. 

He said smallholder farmers and small-scale agro-processors have been struggling due to the current economic challenges. 

Governor Sani urged the beneficiaries to utilise the provided equipment and inputs effectively.

The Commissioner for Agriculture, Murtala Dabo, said the governor’s initiative would not only enhance food security in Kaduna and across Nigeria but also significantly contribute to the revitalisation of the rural economy.