NADF empowers 2,000 sokoto onion farmers to tackle post-harvest losses

By Faridat Salifu

The National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) has distributed essential agricultural inputs to 2,000 onion farmers in Sokoto State to reduce post-harvest losses and strengthen the state’s food system.

Executive Secretary of NADF, Muhammad Abu Ibrahim, disclosed the intervention over the weekend during the input distribution exercise, emphasizing that post-harvest losses remain a major challenge undermining farmers’ incomes and national agricultural productivity.

Represented by NADF Director Mu’azu Ibrahim, Abu Ibrahim expressed the Hope that the support would cushion farmers from losses caused by poor seedlings and other production constraints, noting that sustained interventions were essential for stabilizing and expanding the sector.

He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing underinvestment in agriculture, pledging further measures to de-risk the sector and attract private investment.

Alhaji Tukur Alkali, Sokoto State Commissioner for Agriculture, described the intervention as a lifeline for smallholder farmers who are critical to the state’s food security.

Alhaji Almustapha Alkali, Permanent Secretary in Sokoto State Government, assured continued collaboration with the federal government and agricultural stakeholders to promote value chains, generate employment, stimulate economic growth, and reduce poverty.

Alhaji Abubakar Danmaliki, Project Coordinator of the Sokoto State Agricultural Development Project, hailed the support as timely and crucial for smallholder groups facing rising production costs and operational challenges.

Alhaji Aliyu Maitasamu, President of the Onion Farmers, Producers and Marketers Association, representing beneficiaries, said the programme targeted genuine farmers and expressed optimism that it would significantly boost productivity and improve livelihoods across Sokoto State.