By Abdulwahab Muhammad, Bauchi
Gombe State governor Inuwa Yahaya on Monday launched the 2023 farming season in the state with the distribution of 160 trucks of fertilizer worth N2.8 billion to farmers.
Speaking at the launching ceremony held at Lawanti Farm Centre in Akko local government area of the state, the governor explained that in last year's farming season, government distributed 125 trucks of NPK fertilizer at subsidized rate to the farmers.
He said government added the procurement to 160 trucks this year equivalent to 5, 000 metric tonnes at the cost of N2, 837, 500,000.
Inuwa noted that having considered the high cost of fertilizer in the market and the need to support farmers, the state government has decided to fix the price of the fertilizer at N19, 000 for a bag of NPK representing 25% subsidy as against the market price of over N26, 000 per bag.
"I would like to thank our local farmers for their contribution towards the growth and resilience of our agricultural sector. Your hard work and commitment are invaluable, and we recognize the vital role you play in ensuring food security and sustainable agricultural development in Gombe State and Nigeria at large. I want to assure you of our continuous support and interventions.
"We understand that high cost of fertilizer and other farm implements can be a significant barrier to our farmers. That is why we are working diligently to make high-quality fertilizers and other farm inputs available at reduced prices in order to alleviate the financial burden on our farmers". He said.
The governor stated that aside the distribution of subsidized fertilizers, they are also embarking on agricultural extension services and awareness campaigns on modern farming techniques, soil management and sustainable agriculture so that farmers will have the necessary tools and information to make informed decisions and embrace practices that benefit both their farms and the environment.
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