Kwara distributes 42,000 bags of fertilizer to farmers
By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin
The Kwara State Government has launched the distribution of 42,000 bags of fertilizer to farmers across the state, aiming to boost agricultural productivity and promote food security.
The initiative which took off on Wednesday, is part of a broader effort to ensure bountiful harvests.
The fertilizers, provided by the Central Bank of Nigeria through the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, will be distributed free of charge to local farmers. Each farmer is set to receive at least three bags of fertilizer.
Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, Senior Special Assistant to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Community Development, who oversaw the distribution, highlighted that this federal intervention complements previous state-level efforts.
“We have received 50 trucks of NPK fertilizers and 20 trucks of Urea fertilizers, totaling 70 trucks, from the Central Bank of Nigeria through the Federal Ministry of Agriculture,” Olohungbebe informed reporters during the flag-off ceremony in Ilorin.
He emphasized that this distribution is part of a continuous effort, noting that the state government has already provided fertilizers and other agricultural inputs in three separate batches. “This federal government assistance is being passed on to the farmers at no cost, ensuring it reaches those who need it most.”
The distribution process will be managed by Fertilizer Distribution Committees in each local government area, led by Directors of Personnel Management and supported by community leaders.
The committees will include local development officers, traditional and community leaders, representatives from community-based organizations, CAN, Jama’atu Nasrul Islam, civil society organizations, people with disabilities, and farmers.
Olohungbebe expressed gratitude to the federal government for the support, assuring that the distribution will be monitored closely to ensure the fertilizers reach the intended recipients.
“On behalf of Kwara State, under the leadership of NGF Chairman Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, we extend our appreciation to the federal government and look forward to further collaboration,” he said. “We are committed to ensuring these items benefit our grassroots communities, as we prioritize community-based governance.”
Directors of Personnel Management in Baruten and Kaiama Local Governments, Mrs. Olanike Olashade and Comrade Mrs. Aina Felicia, respectively, praised the initiative. They noted that the distribution would enhance agricultural output and contribute to improved food security nationwide.
