By Abdullahi Lukman
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, on Saturday launched the 2025 wet season fertiliser sales and free input distribution to vulnerable farmers, offering a 50% subsidy on 75 trucks of fertiliser across all 27 local government areas.
Speaking at the Fertiliser Blending Company in Maiduguri, Zulum said the initiative targets smallholder farmers, returnees in resettled communities, women, youth, and other vulnerable groups.
He emphasized the move aligns with the state’s agricultural strategy under Pillar Two of its 25-Year Development Plan and 10-Year Strategic Transformation Initiative.
The initiative includes the sale of both Wet Blend (liquid-based) and Dry Blend (granular) fertilisers. Wet Blends, less prone to diversion, will be deployed in high-risk security zones, while Dry Blends will be sent to safer areas.
Zulum stressed that the distinction also serves security purposes, as fertiliser components can be misused for harmful purposes.
“Fertilizer is essential to restoring livelihoods, increasing yields, and reducing food imports,” he stated.
“Agriculture remains a pillar of peace and progress.
Food security is national security.”
Zulum issued a strong warning against diversion and illegal resale of fertiliser, citing serious security concerns.
He announced strict tracking measures, including batch tracing, verification of recipients, prohibition of proxy purchases, and mandatory registration of agro-dealers. Movement of fertiliser will require formal clearance.
The governor also tasked traditional and community leaders with ensuring local accountability. Violators will face legal consequences, he warned.
He appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, and development partners for supporting the initiative.
Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Engr. Bawu Musami, highlighted the program’s success, stating that over 12,000 farmers in Baga and Monguno produced yields worth ₦3.1 billion.
He called for reactivating the state fertiliser plant and establishing an Agricultural Development Trust Fund to expand agricultural investment.
