Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State on Thursday launched the sale and distribution of subsidised fertilisers to farmers in the state
Speaking at the flag-off at the Fertiliser Blending Plant in Gombe, the governor pegged the price at N22,000, a 50 percent subsidy on market price of the fertilisers, to relieve farmers of the financial burden.
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He disclosed that the Federal Government has allocated 2,000 tons of fertilisers to the state government, “we also procured additional 2,000 tons of assorted fertilisers, making a total of 4,000 tons of assorted fertilizers for distribution to the farmers this farming season.
According to him, 50 percent of the total fertilizer will be sold directly to farmers, while the remaining 50 percent will be sold through cooperative societies, “who will be given the option to repay the government through their harvests.
“This will ensure equitable and fair access to fertilizer by all and sundry, thus guaranteeing an optimum price for farm produce and enhanced food security in the state and Nigeria at large.”
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Governor Yahaya encouraged farmers not to be daunted by the challenges posed by climate change and global economic crisis.
He also appealled to farmers and pastoralists to foster harmonious and cooperative relationships, to avoid conflicts which result in the destruction of lives and properties and hinder our nation’s development.
The governor urged farmers to respect grazing reserves and cattle routes, and also called on herdsmen to avoid grazing on farmlands prior to harvest.
“On our part, the government will not tolerate lawlessness and will support the ‘Farmers/Herders Prevention and Settlement of Disputes Committee,’ in order to ensure peace and harmony prevails in the state.
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On his part, the Commissioner of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Dr Barnabas Malle, appealled to all chairmen of the 11 Local Government Areas of the state and other stakeholders to co-operate with staff of the ministry for effective and successful fertiliser distribution and sales.
He also appealed to Governor Yahaya to employ veterinary doctors, agric and extension officers and supporting staff in the ministry and the Agricultural Development Programme (ADP), to strengthen the agricultural sector.
