agriculture
Nasarawa governor commences distribution of feeds, others to farmers
Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State, has flagged off free distribution of 990 metric tons of ruminant feed supplements, 80 metric tons of mineral salt, which was provided by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, to livestock farmers and pastoral farmers across the state.
ROYAL NEWS gathered that the Governor also commenced the sales of 930 metric tons of fertilizers for the year’s planting season during the flag-off ceremony held at the Government House, Lafia on Tuesday.
Governor Sule who cautioned individuals and groups against purchasing the commodity and selling to farmers at exorbitant rates disclosed that the 930 metric tons of the fertilizer which consists of 18, 600 bags of NPK 20:10:10, is to be sold at a government regulated price of N5,000 per bag.
He said the gesture was first of its kind being the first time fertilizer sales to farmers is commencing before the onset of planting season in the state.
The governor also reiterated his administration’s commitment towards agriculture noting that he would ensure that agricultural potentials of the state is fully harnessed for the overall benefit of the people, stating that until such agricultural potentials are properly harnessed, the state may not be able to generate the desired employment, as well as create wealth.
Recent statistics indicated that 80 percent of the population in Nasarawa State engage in one farming activity or the other, with agriculture as major employer of labour and most viable vehicle for ensuring food security.
“This is why we remained resolute in our commitment to ensure that the current economic meltdown occasioned by the coronavirus pandemic and its attendant effects on the economy does not affect the prospects of the agricultural sector which is the mainstay of the economy of Nasarawa State,” He stated.
The Governor further disclosed that in line with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development support aimed at mitigating farmer/herder conflicts towards ensuring sustainable development, Nassarawa state has entered into an agreement with the Lower Benue River Basin Development Authority to access 500 hectares of land in Doma Local Government Area, for production of rice, provision of employment opportunity and cushion post-COVID-19 hardship.
He however warned against diversion and racketeering in the distribution of the fertilizers, stressing that those handling the fertilizer sales will be held responsible for any anomaly in the distribution of the commodity.
Contact: info@royalnews.com.ng