In a bold move to boost food security and reposition agriculture as a key economic driver, Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, on Saturday flagged off the distribution of 400 trucks of fertiliser to 100,000 smallholder farmers across the state. Each farmer will receive two bags of fertiliser free of charge.
The flag-off ceremony, held at Murtala Square in Kaduna, also saw the unveiling of a Crop Risk Insurance Scheme aimed at protecting farmers from climate-related risks, pests, and crop diseases.
Governor Sani described the initiative as a fulfilment of his administration’s “farmer-first policy,” which prioritises inclusive rural development and agricultural transformation.
“This is not just another fertiliser distribution event. It is part of a coordinated strategy to empower our farmers, ensure food security, and build rural prosperity,” the Governor said. “Kaduna remains the only state consistently providing free agricultural inputs to smallholder farmers.”
The newly introduced insurance scheme, he added, will shield farmers from losses caused by extreme weather events, safeguarding livelihoods and encouraging continued investment in agriculture.
In addition to support for smallholder farmers, the Governor announced a subsidised fertiliser programme for commercial farmers, allowing them to purchase up to 10 bags per person at a 40% discount, bringing the price per bag to ₦30,000.
“This measure will help lower production costs, stimulate job creation, and stabilise food prices in local markets,” he explained.
Governor Sani credited the success of Kaduna’s agricultural reforms to improved security, which has reopened previously inaccessible farmlands and restored farmer confidence.
He highlighted key achievements since taking office, including Kaduna’s largest-ever fertiliser distribution in 2023 (over 500 trucks), dry-season farming initiatives, a ginger recovery programme, and the deployment of 200 tractors to promote mechanised farming.
Underscoring his administration’s commitment, the Governor revealed that Kaduna’s agriculture budget has skyrocketed from ₦1.48 billion in 2023 to ₦74.02 billion in 2025—a 4,871% increase. Agriculture now commands 10% of the total state budget, up from just 0.4% two years ago.
“We made a campaign promise to transition agriculture from subsistence to a driver of growth, jobs, and dignity. Today, we are delivering on that promise,” Sani declared.
He urged beneficiaries to utilise the fertiliser responsibly and commended partners and stakeholders for ensuring transparency in the distribution process.
“Agriculture is not just a way of life—it is a path to sustainable prosperity for our people. We will continue to invest in it, innovate in it, and champion it,” the Governor affirmed.
