Sponsored by Hon. Honorius Arome, Senior Special Assistant to Gov. Ahmed Usman Ododo on Farm Inputs.
In a groundbreaking stride towards transforming the agricultural landscape, Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has spearheaded a series of ambitious initiatives aimed at revolutionizing farming, boosting food security, and improving the livelihoods of thousands of farmers. These efforts, highlighted by the Senior Special Adviser on Farm Inputs, Hon. Honorius Arome, in a press briefing with The Bureau Newspaper, underscore the administration’s unwavering commitment to sustainable agricultural development.
Governor Ododo Inspecting Farmlands Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, dressed in traditional attire, touring expansive farmlands alongside state officials and farmers. The photo highlights the governor’s direct involvement in agricultural development initiatives.
Over ₦7 Billion Investment in Wet Season Farming
Governor Ododo launched the wet season farming initiative with an investment exceeding ₦7 billion, targeting rice, maize, and cassava production across the state. The initiative spans over 7,324 hectares of farmland and directly benefits nearly 10,000 farmers. With the distribution of essential farm inputs such as fertilizers, herbicides, improved seedlings, and cassava cuttings, the state government has taken a decisive step towards enhancing local food production.
Aerial View of Farmlands An aerial shot showing vast expanses of farmland segmented into plots for rice, maize, and cassava cultivation. The green landscape illustrates the scale and ambition of the wet season farming initiative.
Empowering Farmers with Mechanization and Inputs
To further support mechanized farming, the government deployed over 100 tractors to farming communities statewide. This bold move facilitates large-scale farming and reduces the drudgery associated with traditional agricultural practices. Additionally, the state distributed fertilizers and other critical inputs, including 25 truckloads of MPK fertilizers provided in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. Farmers across the 21 Local Government Areas have already begun receiving these inputs.
Tractors at the Distribution Flag-Off A lineup of over 100 brand-new tractors displayed at the launch of the wet season farming initiative. Governor Ododo is seen cutting a ribbon, officially flagging off the distribution to farmers.
Distribution of Farm Inputs Stacks of fertilizer bags, herbicides, and improved seedlings being distributed to farmers at a central location. Farmers are seen collecting their supplies with smiles, showcasing the government’s commitment to supporting agriculture.
Innovative Farmer Support Programs
The administration has implemented several initiatives to strengthen farmers’ capacity. A comprehensive registration exercise has successfully enrolled over 10,000 farmers to benefit from these programs. Training sessions focusing on modern farming techniques and sustainable agricultural practices have also been organized to equip farmers with the skills needed for high yields and efficiency.
SSA on farm input, Hon. Honorius Arome, others inspecting fertilizer bags being unloaded at a rural farming community. Workers are seen stacking the bags as farmers gather around to receive their allocations.
Strategic Partnerships Driving Progress
The Kogi State government has forged key partnerships to bolster its agricultural agenda. Collaborations with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and private sector stakeholders have facilitated the provision of essential support services, such as tractor maintenance and repair. These alliances not only enhance farming operations but also ensure the sustainability of the state’s agricultural projects.
Budgetary Commitment to Agriculture
Governor Ododo’s administration has made agriculture a top priority, reflecting this commitment in its budgetary allocations. Significant resources have been channeled into the sector, ensuring that the farming community has the tools and infrastructure needed to thrive during the wet season and beyond.
A Vision for a Food-Secure Kogi State
These initiatives, according to Hon. Honorius Arome, showcase Governor Ododo’s dedication to fostering food security, increasing local food production, and creating sustainable economic opportunities for the people of Kogi State. The governor’s focus on agriculture not only aligns with global sustainable development goals but also reaffirms his vision of making Kogi State a hub for agricultural excellence in Nigeria.
The People’s Perspective
Residents and stakeholders have lauded Governor Ododo’s achievements, describing his leadership as a beacon of hope for the state’s farming community. With these remarkable strides in agriculture, the administration is paving the way for economic growth, poverty alleviation, and food sufficiency across the state.
As Hon. Honorius concluded, “The vision of His Excellency is clear: a self-sufficient Kogi State that thrives on the hard work of its people, supported by a government that believes in their potential.”
This renewed focus on agriculture reflects a legacy of action and transformation, proving once again that Kogi State, under the leadership of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, is on the path to unprecedented progress.