By Atoyebi Nike
Governor Babagana Zulum has launched the distribution of 75 trucks of subsidised fertiliser and free farming inputs to smallholder and vulnerable farmers across Borno’s 27 local councils ahead of the 2025 wet season.
Flagged off at the state-owned Fertilizer Blending Company in Maiduguri, the initiative targets returnees, women, youth, and farmers in conflict-affected areas. Fertilisers will be sold at 50% of the market price under a policy linked to Borno’s 25-Year Development Plan.
Governor Zulum said the fertilizers come in two forms: Wet Blend for insecure areas (to curb misuse) and Dry Blend for stable zones. “Affordable and secure access to fertilizer is critical for food production, soil health, and household food security,” he noted.
Warning against diversion, the governor announced strict monitoring measures, including tracking each batch, banning proxy purchases, and enforcing clearance protocols for movement. Traditional leaders were also tasked with ensuring fair distribution.
Commissioner for Agriculture, Bawu Musami, added that over 12,000 smallholder farmers, including women and youth, have received seeds, agrochemicals, and financial support, with yields in Baga and Monguno alone reaching over ₦3.1 billion.
Governor Zulum thanked President Tinubu and federal agencies for their continued support, affirming the state’s commitment to achieving food self-sufficiency through sustainable agriculture.
