Uba Sani distributes free fertilizers, enrolls 100,000 farmers in crop insurance

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to agricultural transformation with the distribution of 400 trucks of free fertilizer to 100,000 smallholder farmers and the launch of a new crop risk insurance scheme.

The governor, speaking at the flag-off ceremony held at Murtala Square on Saturday, said the twin initiatives aim to promote inclusive development, enhance food security, and uplift rural communities across the state.

“As part of our farmer-first policy, each of the 100,000 smallholder farmers will receive two bags of fertilizer at no cost,” Governor Sani announced. “Kaduna remains the only state in Nigeria where smallholder farmers consistently access free fertilizer and other critical inputs.”

He further explained that the newly introduced crop insurance scheme will shield farmers from the impact of pests, diseases, and adverse weather conditions aggravated by climate change.

The governor noted that the initiative builds on last year’s record distribution of over 500 trucks of fertilizer and other agricultural support programs such as dry season farming assistance, ginger recovery efforts, and the deployment of 200 tractors to promote mechanization.

In addition to the free distribution, Governor Sani launched a subsidized fertilizer scheme targeted at commercial farmers. Under this program, each farmer will have access to 10 bags of fertilizer at a 40% subsidy, reducing the price to ₦30,000 per bag.

“This will significantly lower production costs, support job creation, and help stabilize market prices,” he added.

Governor Sani attributed the success of his administration’s agricultural drive to improved security across Kaduna State, which has made previously inaccessible farmlands safe for cultivation again.

Highlighting the government’s investment in agriculture, the governor revealed that the sector’s budgetary allocation rose dramatically from ₦1.48 billion in 2023 to ₦74.02 billion in 2025—a staggering 4,871% increase. Agriculture’s share of the state budget has also climbed from 0.4% to 10% within the same period.

“This fertilizer distribution is not an isolated event but part of a broader, strategic approach to agricultural transformation,” he said.

Governor Sani urged beneficiaries to use the inputs responsibly and commended all stakeholders for ensuring transparency in the distribution process.

“We are building a Kaduna where agriculture is not just a livelihood but a sustainable path to growth, dignity, and prosperity,” he concluded.