Oluremi Tinubu flags off 2026 planting season in Niger, distributes farm inputs

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has officially launched the 2026 planting season in Niger State, describing the initiative as a major step toward strengthening food security and modernising agriculture. The event also featured the distribution of farming tools and inputs to farmers across the state.

Speaking at the ceremony, the First Lady said the programme reflects Nigeria’s determination to transform its agricultural sector.

“Today’s event is not just the commencement of another farming season; it is a bold statement that Nigeria is ready to feed herself,” she said.
“It signals a deliberate transition from subsistence practices to modern, mechanised, and commercially viable agriculture.”

She added that providing farmers with essential tools would boost productivity and improve livelihoods.

“This gesture will no doubt empower our farmers with the tools needed to increase productivity, enhance livelihoods, and strengthen our GDP,” she stated.

Mrs. Tinubu linked the initiative to the food security agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, recalling his 2023 declaration of a national emergency on food security.

“Food availability and affordability must be treated as national priorities,” she said, noting that the distribution of fertilizers and inputs aligns with the administration’s agricultural vision.

She also paid tribute to farmers nationwide.

“You are the backbone of our nation’s survival, and the reason for today’s support is to ensure that your efforts do not go unrecognized,” she said.

In his remarks, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago emphasised agriculture as a priority for his administration.

“The removal of fuel subsidy has made more money available to the sub-nationals, which has enabled us as a state to achieve more in agriculture,” he said.