Gov. Al-Makura flags off fertiliser distribution

Gov. Umaru Al-Makura of Nasarawa State has warned herdsmen against destroying farmlands, and promised severe sanctions for anyone caught.

Al-Makura gave the warning on Wednesday at Agyaragu, Obi Local Government, when he flagged off the distribution of fertiliser to farmers.

The governor particularly warned herdsmen against deploying minors to grazing fields, pointing out that it was usually impossible for the small boys to control the cattle from straying into farms.

Al-Makura announced that N1 billion had been sunk into purchasing 10,000 tonnes of fertiliser for distribution to farmers at a subsidised rate.

“Government bought each bag at the rate of N5,000; farmers will get it at N4,000 per bag,” he said.

He said that a committee, comprising local government chairmen, farmers’ association, security agencies and other stakeholders, had been set up to ensure that the commodity was restricted to genuine farmers.

Al-Makura expressed optimism that the problem of shortage of fertiliser would become history “immediately the four modular fertiliser blending plants expected from China began operation in the state”.

Alhaji Ishaq Muazu, Chairman, Nasarawa State chapter of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), in a remark, commended government for the gesture, and assured that only genuine farmers would access the commodity.

He, however, appealed to the government to commence the distribution of fertiliser early enough in subsequent cropping seasons to ensure greater agricultural yields. (NAN)