Gov. Usman Ododo of Kogi has inaugurated the distribution of 25 trucks of fertiliser to farmers across the state as part of efforts to enhance food production and boost security.
The governor, at the inaugural ceremony in Lokoja on Saturday, warned against diversion, inequitable distribution and exclusion of genuine farmers, emphasising that his administration would not tolerate such.
Ododo reiterated his commitment to developing the agricultural sector, describing the occasion as a fulfilling moment for him as a leader dedicated to serving the state’s best interests.
He emphasised that agriculture is crucial for the country’s economic rebound and highlighted Kogi’s potential, with its vast land mass, water bodies, and political will to invest in the sector.
The governor directed that 50 per cent of the current fertiliser supply should go to farmers in Ibaji and Bassa Local Government Areas, where there were more clusters of farmers.
He promised to extend more support to genuine farmers, commending President Bola Tinubu for his efforts to reverse the country’s economic challenges by incentivising farmers.
The state commissioner for agriculture and food security, Mr Timothy Ojomah, expressed gratitude to Gov. Ododo for his interventions, positioning Kogi as a major hub for agricultural production in Nigeria.
The Managing Director of Kogi State Agricultural Development Project, Mr George Ogirima, noted that the federal government’s provision of fertiliser aligned with the governor’s vision for the state.