Governor Dauda Lawal has flagged off the distribution of fertiliser and critical agricultural inputs to over 59,000 smallholder farmers across Zamfara State, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to agriculture as a primary engine of economic development.
At a ceremony held on Wednesday at the Ministry of Agriculture in Gusau, Lawal also commissioned the newly completed Fadama House, a facility expected to support irrigation and dry-season farming initiatives in the state.
The distribution exercise, part of the 2025 wet season agricultural support programme, includes 59,205 bags of fertiliser transported via 98 trucks for deployment across local government areas.
According to a statement by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the inputs package also includes 34,800kg of rice seeds, 80,000kg of maize seeds, 23,740 litres of herbicides, 11,735 litres of insecticides and 23,470 sachets of seed dressing chemicals.
Speaking at the flag-off, Governor Lawal described agriculture as the “lifeblood” of Zamfara’s economy, with over 85 percent of the state’s population depending on farming for livelihood.
He reiterated his administration’s vision to reposition the sector through targeted investment and inclusive policies.
“This administration has embraced the slogan ‘Farming is Our Pride’ because it speaks to who we are and what we must prioritise,” Lawal said. “It is our duty, and indeed our moral obligation, to support and empower our farmers.”
He explained that the initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 2, which aims to end hunger and promote sustainable agriculture, and is part of a broader transformation plan tailored to local needs.
Despite the unpredictable 2025 rainy season and climate change challenges, Lawal said his government remains proactive, investing in seeds, fertiliser, technology and extension services to strengthen the agricultural value chain from planting to post-harvest.
“We have digitised our distribution process to eliminate diversion and ensure transparency. Inputs must reach the right farmers, at the right time,” he added.
The governor also issued a stern warning to beneficiaries against selling the subsidised inputs, emphasising that the materials are meant to increase productivity and secure livelihoods, not for trading.
“These inputs are not commodities for quick gain. They are tools of productivity and investments in the future of Zamfara. Use them wisely,” he told farmers.
Lawal further highlighted the administration’s support for women, youth, and persons with disabilities, describing them as central to the state’s broader agricultural vision.
The 2025 wet season programme is one of the largest interventions in recent years aimed at rebuilding confidence in farming, boosting rural income, and strengthening food systems across Zamfara’s diverse agro-ecological zones.
