By Laiatu Augustine Bamaiyi, Kebbi
Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, has officially launched the 2025 dry season farming initiative and the distribution of Ramadan palliatives at the Haliru Abdu Stadium.
The event attracted thousands of farmers, political figures, and stakeholders across the state, reflecting the administration’s commitment to agricultural productivity and food security.
Agricultural Support for Farmers
During the ceremony, Governor Idris emphasized the importance of food production, announcing that essential farming implements and food supplies would be provided free of charge to beneficiaries. The distribution includes:
- 10,000 solar-powered water pumps
- 10,000 gasoline-powered water pumps
- 3,000 LPG-powered water pumps
- 3,000 power tillers
- 10,000 knapsack sprayers
- 10,000 liters each of herbicides, pesticides, and organic fertilizers
- Rice seeds and assorted fertilizers
Ramadan Palliatives for Citizens
In addition to agricultural support, Governor Idris announced that 200 trucks filled with assorted food items would be distributed as part of the 2025/1446 AH Ramadan palliatives, aimed at assisting citizens during the fasting period.
He assured that the distribution process would be inclusive, benefiting civil servants, teachers, local government staff, members of the House of Assembly, labor unions, security personnel, traditional institutions, army widows, and residents from APC polling units.
Governor Idris also cautioned against the diversion or sale of food items, urging distribution committees to act with integrity and fairness.
Progress in Agriculture and Federal Support
The governor celebrated significant strides in Kebbi’s agricultural sector, attributing the progress to strategic interventions and strong partnerships with the Federal Government.
He expressed gratitude to the Minister of Agriculture, Senator Abubakar Kyari, for his steadfast support in fostering food security in Kebbi State and Nigeria at large.
Governor Idris also acknowledged the National Council on Agriculture and Food Security for approving the state’s Memorandum on Residual Moisture Crop Production, a strategy designed to mitigate flood-related losses and enhance food security. He urged the Minister of Agriculture to expedite the implementation of the council’s resolutions and called on farmers to maximize the use of provided resources to boost productivity.
Commendations from Federal and State Officials
Senator Abubakar Kyari praised Governor Idris as a compassionate and visionary leader, stating that his initiatives have empowered farmers, increased agricultural yields, and contributed to stabilizing food prices.
The Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Yakubu Bala Tafida, assured attendees that the distribution process would be impartial, with beneficiaries selected from registered farmers’ cooperatives under the State Ministry of Agriculture.
Similarly, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Alhaji Shehu Mu’azu, commended Governor Idris for his unwavering commitment to agricultural development, noting that Kebbi State has become a model for successful dry-season farming.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The event was graced by top government officials, including:
- Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu
- Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Tanko Yusuf Sununu
- House of Representatives Member, Alhaji Saidu Nasamu Dakingari
- The State APC Campaign DG
- Members of the Kebbi State House of Assembly
With these bold initiatives, Kebbi State is poised to enhance its agricultural landscape, ensure food security, and support citizens during the holy month of Ramadan.