Gov. Uba Sani of Kaduna State Monday initiated the distribution of farm inputs, implements, and agro-processing equipment to 40,000 small holder farmers under his ‘A Koma Gona’ (Back to Farm) initiative.

The event, marking the celebration of his first year in office, took place in Ikara Local Government Area and targeted beneficiaries in the Northern Senatorial Zone of the state.

Governor Sani highlighted Kaduna’s status as the largest producer of ginger, maize, and tomatoes in Nigeria but lamented the post-harvest losses farmers face, especially with perishable produce like tomatoes.

He pledged to revive plans for a tomato processing plant in Ikara to mitigate these losses.

Gov. Sani stated, “Agriculture remains the backbone of our economy, providing employment and sustaining livelihoods. Kaduna State is blessed with huge agricultural potential.

He said ” Our administration has implemented programs and policies to boost the sector and attract the necessary investment for its growth and development.”

He emphasized the importance of supporting small holder farmers and small-scale agro-processors amid the current economic challenges.

“These farmers are crucial to our quest for food security. Our ‘Tallafin Noma – A Koma Noma’ program, part of our ‘Sustainable Livelihoods Through Social Interventions and Economic Empowerment’ initiative, aims to support at least 40,000 smallholder farmers and cooperatives across the 23 LGAs.

“The Tallafin Noma program includes distributing improved maize seed, agrochemicals, NPK and urea fertilizers for crop production. For livestock production, it provides 30-day-old chicks (broilers) with feed and drugs, and 50 juvenile catfish with feed and drugs for fisheries,

“To enhance micro-mechanization, power tillers with necessary equipment are distributed to farmer cooperative groups.

Other items distributed includes Knapsack sprayers with personal protection equipment are given to individuals for agrochemical application.

While Agro-processors receive vegetable grinders, while cooperatives receive hammer mills, haulers, and threshers.

“These processing machines will add value to our agricultural produce and improve the livelihoods of individuals and groups involved in agro-processing activities,” Governor Sani said,

He further urged the beneficiaries to make effective use of the inputs and equipment.

In his remarks,Commissioner of Agriculture, Murtala Dabo, praised the initiative for boosting food security and revitalizing the rural economy.

Ikara Local Government Chairman, Sadiq Salihu, expressed gratitude for the Governor’s commitment to farmers’ welfare and prosperity, noting that initiatives like Tallafin Noma are transforming rural communities.

“Under your visionary leadership, initiatives like Tallafin Noma are making a tangible difference in the lives of our people.

“Today’s flag-off of the distribution of farm inputs and equipment is a testament to your dedication to enhancing agricultural productivity and rural economic resilience,” Salihu said

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