Gov Aliyu flags off sales of subsidised fertiliser, agro-chemicals to Sokoto farmers

As part of efforts to boost agricultural productivity across Sokoto State, Governor Ahmed Aliyu has flagged off the sales of subsidised fertiliser and agro-chemicals for the 2025 cropping season.

The flag-off ceremony was held on Tuesday in Gwadabawa Local Government Area, attracting stakeholders from across the state.

Governor Aliyu announced that a total of 105,800 bags of assorted fertilisers—including NPK 20:10:10 and Urea have been jointly procured by the state government and the 23 local government councils at the cost of ₦5.3 billion. The fertilisers will be sold to farmers at a 40% subsidised rate, with NPK priced at ₦28,800 per bag and Urea (Indorama) at ₦29,800.

To further support farmers, the government also purchased 12,800 bags of improved seeds, to such as Millet Super Sosat, Maize Hybrid, Cowpea, Sorghum, and Rice Faro 44—at ₦60 million. Additionally, herbicides and insecticides valued at ₦36.65 million were procured for distribution.

Reiterating his administration’s commitment to food security, Governor Aliyu disclosed the award of a ₦22.1 billion contract for the procurement of 250 units of Massey Ferguson MF-375 tractors. He also revealed plans to acquire tiller machines to support smallholder farmers and expand mechanised farming.

The governor further announced contracts for the rehabilitation of Lugu Dam and Kware irrigation facilities to support year-round farming. He urged farmers to use the subsidised inputs wisely and warned against diversion, directing security agencies to monitor distribution and apprehend defaulters.

Governor Aliyu justified the subsidised sales model, stating that previous free distributions were marred by abuses that excluded genuine farmers.

“This new approach ensures that only real farmers benefit from government support,” he emphasised.

The event was attended by top government officials, including former Deputy Governor and Chairman of the Sales Committee, Chiso Abdullahi Dattijo; Commissioner for Agriculture, Muhammad Tukur Alkali; Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ibrahim Dadi Adare; and several lawmakers. The Sultan of Sokoto was represented by Dr. Jabir Kilgori.

Also in attendance were the APC leader in the state, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko; Speaker of the State Assembly, Tukur Bala Bodinga; APC State Chairman, Isa Saddiq Achida; and other dignitaries, traditional rulers, and local government officials.

ALSO READ TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE