Zulum launches 50% off fertiliser sale, free farm implements for 120,000 Borno smallholder farmers

Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State, on Tuesday, flagged off the 2026 statewide Wet Farming Season and launched the sales and distribution of 200 truckloads of NPK fertiliser at 50% subsidised rates, alongside the distribution of free agricultural inputs to 120,000 farmers to boost food production and improve farmers’ livelihoods across the state.

The intervention includes the distribution of free agrochemicals, knapsack sprayers, certified seeds, water pumps, bicycles and post-harvest storage facilities as part of the state’s comprehensive agricultural support programme.

Governor Zulum also launched the distribution of 10,000 bicycles to enhance the mobility of rural farmers and unveiled post-harvest storage facilities to reduce losses and improve the preservation of farm produce.

Speaking during the flag-off ceremony held at Kwaya Kusar Main Stadium, the Governor said the intervention was designed to strengthen agriculture, guarantee food and nutrition security, create employment opportunities and improve the socio-economic wellbeing of the people.

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He explained that the programme covers the entire agricultural value chain, including mechanisation services, irrigation development, fertiliser and improved seed distribution, agrochemical support, agricultural extension services, harvesting support, post-harvest storage, agro-processing facilities, market access, and agricultural financing initiatives targeting women and youths.

“We are gathered here in Kwaya Kusar, one of the most important agricultural hubs in our state, to officially launch the 2026 Wet Farming Season and flag off the sales and distribution of NPK fertilisers at government-subsidised rates alongside the distribution of free agrochemicals, knapsack sprayers, certified seeds, water pumps, bicycles, as well as post-harvest storage facilities for healthy and durable storage.

“Borno State Government has procured 200 truckloads of high-quality NPK fertiliser which will be sold to farmers at a subsidy of 50 per cent of the prevailing market price. This represents a significant increase compared to the 75 truckloads distributed during the last farming season.

“Beyond fertilisers, the state government will also distribute 40,000 litres of agrochemicals free of charge, 5,000 water pumps, 5,000 knapsack sprayers, 10,000 bicycles and other essential farm inputs to over 120,000 profiled farmers across the state to ensure that farmers receive support across the entire agricultural value chain,” he said.

Governor Zulum explained that Kwaya Kusar was deliberately selected to host the state-wide launch because of its strategic importance as one of Borno’s major agricultural hubs and its immense farming potential within the North-East region.

He also warned beneficiaries against diverting or selling the subsidised fertilisers.

“I wish to use this opportunity to emphasise that these fertilisers being distributed today are meant strictly for agricultural crop production. They are not for resale, diversion, hoarding or any other purpose other than crop production. Every beneficiary has a responsibility to ensure that these NPK fertilisers are utilised appropriately,” Zulum warned.

Governor Zulum commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the Federal Government’s continued support to states, noting that the assistance had enabled sub-national governments to implement more people-centred development programmes.

Similarly, Governor Zulum also announced a cash support package of N500 million for vulnerable persons, women and youths across the five local government areas of Biu, Hawul, Kwaya Kusar, Shani and Bayo to enhance livelihoods and stimulate economic activities.

Bawu Musami, the state Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, described Borno as steadily emerging as one of Nigeria’s leading agricultural states through sustained investments in the sector.

“Zulum has implemented numerous interventions, including both free and subsidised fertiliser programmes, mechanisation services, extension services, improved seeds, irrigation infrastructure, solar-powered water pumps, agrochemicals, agricultural assets, post-harvest processing facilities and many others,” Bawu stated.

Mohammed Ali Ndume, Senator representing Borno South, advocated the revival of the State’s annual agricultural show to provide farmers with opportunities to showcase their produce and promote agricultural innovation.