In a major push to strengthen food security and support rural farmers, the Sokoto State Government has invested over N5.3 billion in the joint procurement of 105,800 bags of assorted fertilisers for the 2025 planting season.
Governor Ahmed Aliyu made this known on Wednesday during the official launch of subsidised fertiliser and agro-chemical sales held in Gwadabawa Local Government Area.
The programme, launched in collaboration with all 23 local government councils, is part of a broader agricultural transformation plan for the state.
Addressing stakeholders at the event, the governor explained that the fertilisers – including NPK 20:10:10 and Urea (Indorama) – would be sold to farmers at a 40% subsidy.
NPK will go for N28,800 per bag, while Urea is pegged at N29,800 per bag.
In addition, the government has procured 12,800 bags of improved seeds – such as Maize Hybrid, Millet Super Sosat, Cowpea, Sorghum, and Rice Faro 44 – worth N60 million, along with herbicides and insecticides valued at N36.65 million.
Governor Aliyu emphasized that the initiative is aimed at ensuring timely access to quality agricultural inputs while promoting a gradual shift toward mechanised farming.
“This is not just about distribution. It’s about ensuring the right inputs get to the right hands,” he said. “We’re moving from giveaways that benefited briefcase farmers to a system that empowers real farmers working the soil.”
As part of broader reforms, the state has also awarded a N22.1 billion contract for the procurement of 250 Massey Ferguson MF-375 tractors and announced plans to purchase tiller machines to support smallholder farmers.
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Other notable agricultural infrastructure projects include the rehabilitation of Lugu Dam and Kware irrigation systems, which aim to support all-year-round farming in the state.
The governor warned against the diversion or hoarding of subsidised inputs, directing security agencies to ensure strict monitoring.
“This new model is designed to curb abuse. We want our farmers to benefit, not middlemen,” Aliyu stated.
Prominent attendees at the flag-off event included former Deputy Governor Chiso Dattijo, who also serves as Chairman of the Fertiliser Sales Committee, Commissioner for Agriculture Muhammad Alkali, and Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Ibrahim Adare.
The Sultan of Sokoto was represented by Dr. Jabir Kilgori, while other dignitaries included APC leader Senator Aliyu Wamakko, Speaker of the House Tukur Bodinga, APC state chairman Isa Achida, lawmakers, traditional rulers, and top government functionaries.
The initiative is expected to significantly boost agricultural productivity across Sokoto, reduce dependence on food imports, and contribute to Nigeria’s broader goal of food self-sufficiency.