Ododo flags off fertilizer distribution for dry season farming in Kogi
In a major move to bolster food security, Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Ahmed Usman Ododo, has officially flagged off the distribution of over 30,000 bags of assorted fertilizers to farmers across the state for the dry season farming cycle.
The ceremony was performed on behalf of the Governor by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Timothy Ojomah, who reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to transforming Kogi into a premier agricultural hub.
Hon. Ojomah characterized the distribution as a cornerstone of Governor Ododo’s agricultural reforms. The initiative is designed to directly support smallholder farmers, increase crop yields, and alleviate the rising costs of agricultural inputs.
"These 30,000 bags of fertilizer were specifically procured to meet the diverse needs of various crop value chains within the state," Ojomah stated.
He urged the beneficiaries to utilize the inputs judiciously to maximize productivity and assured them of continued government support through enhanced extension services and sustainable policies.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Moses Dare, described the distribution as a strategic intervention aimed at facilitating year-round farming. He emphasized that the ministry has implemented strict measures to ensure transparency and accountability, ensuring the fertilizers reach genuine farmers at the grassroots level.
Further support for the initiative came from Hon. Hillary Egwuda Ojomah, Deputy Chief of Staff to the Deputy Governor, who lauded Governor Ododo’s inclusive leadership style and his focus on rural welfare.
Representing the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, HRH Mallam Yakubu Aliyu described the timing of the distribution as impactful for rural livelihoods.
Musa Mohammed Lawal, speaking for the local government councils, assured that monitoring teams would be active across all local governments to oversee the effective use of the supplies.
Speaking for the beneficiaries, farmer Idris Onuche expressed profound gratitude, noting that the intervention provides much-needed relief from the high cost of inputs.
The event concluded with a unanimous declaration by the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) and various commodity groups, who pledged their support for the administrations of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, citing their sustained commitment to agricultural transformation and farmer welfare.