By Abdullah Lukman
The Kaduna State chapter of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) has raised concern over worsening insecurity and the rising cost of fertiliser, warning that both challenges could threaten food production across the state.
The state chairman of the association, Nuhu Aminu, said many farmers are unable to access their farmlands because of persistent attacks by bandits and kidnappers in several communities.
He identified Giwa, Kauru, Kubau, Kudan, Kajuru, Sanga and Kachia local government areas as some of the worst affected by insecurity, noting that fear of attacks has forced many farmers to abandon cultivation.
According to Aminu, the growing insecurity has reduced farmers’ confidence and may lead to food shortages if urgent steps are not taken to secure farming communities.
He also described the high cost of fertiliser as a major challenge ahead of the planting season, saying many smallholder farmers can no longer afford chemical fertiliser due to rising prices.
The AFAN chairman said the association is encouraging farmers to adopt organic fertiliser as an alternative, although many still struggle to purchase enough quantities for farming activities.
He called on governments at all levels to subsidise fertiliser and ensure timely distribution of farm inputs to farmers before the peak of the farming season.
Aminu further urged the government to provide more support and incentives for farmers, stressing that agriculture remains one of the key sectors sustaining the nation’s economy.