Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has launched the 2026 wet farming season with the introduction of a 50 per cent fertiliser subsidy and the distribution of free agricultural inputs to more than 120,000 smallholder farmers across the state.
The programme features the sale of 200 truckloads of NPK fertiliser at half the market price, as well as the free distribution of agrochemicals, certified seeds, knapsack sprayers, water pumps, bicycles and post-harvest storage facilities to improve agricultural productivity and farmers’ livelihoods.
Speaking during the launch at the Kwaya Kusar Main Stadium, Zulum said the initiative is aimed at boosting food production, improving food and nutrition security, creating employment opportunities and enhancing the economic wellbeing of residents.
He explained that the intervention covers the entire agricultural value chain, including mechanised farming, irrigation development, improved seed distribution, fertiliser supply, agrochemical support, extension services, harvesting, post-harvest storage, agro-processing, market access and agricultural financing, with particular focus on women and youths.
According to the governor, the state procured 200 truckloads of high-quality NPK fertiliser for this year’s farming season, a significant increase from the 75 truckloads distributed during the previous season.
In addition, the government will provide 40,000 litres of agrochemicals, 5,000 water pumps, 5,000 knapsack sprayers, 10,000 bicycles and other essential farming equipment free of charge to the registered beneficiaries.
Zulum said Kwaya Kusar was chosen for the statewide launch because of its strategic role as one of Borno State’s key agricultural hubs with strong farming potential.
He warned beneficiaries against diverting, hoarding or selling the subsidised fertiliser, stressing that the products are strictly meant to support crop production.
The governor also unveiled a ₦500 million financial support package for vulnerable residents, women and youths across Biu, Hawul, Kwaya Kusar, Shani and Bayo Local Government Areas to strengthen livelihoods and stimulate local economic activities.
Zulum commended President Bola Tinubu for the Federal Government’s continued support to states, saying the assistance has enabled state governments to implement more people-oriented development programmes.
Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Bawu Musami, said sustained investment in agriculture is helping position Borno as one of Nigeria’s leading agricultural states.
He highlighted several interventions undertaken by the state, including fertiliser subsidies, mechanisation services, improved seed distribution, irrigation projects, extension services, solar-powered water pumps, agrochemicals, agricultural equipment and post-harvest processing facilities.
Also speaking at the event, Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume called for the revival of Borno State’s annual agricultural exhibition to provide farmers with an opportunity to showcase their produce and promote innovation in the sector.
The launch was attended by senior government officials, members of the Borno State House of Assembly, traditional rulers, local government chairmen, APC leaders and other stakeholders.
