In a move aimed at enhancing large-scale yam cultivation and mitigating the impact of the 2022 flood on local farmers, the Federal Government has distributed upgraded yam seedlings and various agricultural inputs to farmers and extension agents in Kaduna.
During the distribution event held on Sunday in Kaduna, Mrs. Raheem Adejoke, a Senior Agricultural Officer from the Federal Department of Agricultural Extension Services, emphasized the government’s commitment to boosting yam production….CONTINUE READING
She supervised the allocation of these resources and explained that the distribution encompassed improved yam seedlings, fertilizers, pre and post-emergence herbicides, benefitting a total of 33 farmers.
Adejoke further clarified that this initiative, which extends across the Northwest, Northeast, and North Central regions, serves as an emergency empowerment program for farmers and extension agents.
The Federal Government’s focus on staple crops, including improved yam seedlings in Kaduna, reflects its dedication to ensuring food security in households and the nation at large.
She encouraged the recipients to make efficient use of the provided inputs, highlighting that the Federal Government’s investment aims to enhance agricultural productivity.
Dr. Timkat Nanfa, the Coordinator of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in Kaduna, emphasized the critical role of agricultural inputs in farming, describing them as the foundation of agricultural success. He stressed that inputs significantly contribute to increased production, leading to better yields and harvests.
Regarding the state of yam farming in Kaduna, predominantly in the southern part, Dr. Nanfa expressed concern and noted that the inputs would likely lead to higher yields among farmers.
Muhammad Rili, the General Manager of the Kaduna State Agricultural Development Agency (KADA), disclosed that the beneficiaries were primarily smallholder farmers in need of such support to improve their livelihoods.
He added that the agency would closely monitor the beneficiaries to ensure the effective use of the distributed inputs, utilizing their comprehensive database.
Rili extended gratitude to the Federal Government for selecting Kaduna State as a recipient of this support, expressing hope for continued collaboration and assistance to promote agricultural development, empower rural farmers, and enhance economic sustainability through agriculture.
