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From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Benue State chapter, has appealed on the Federal and State governments to urgently provide seedlings and other agricultural inputs to farmers to ensure a successful cropping season and improved food production across the state.
The Chairman of AFAN in Benue, Enerst Atoji made this appeal at the in Makurdi while speaking to our correspondent on the concerns of Benue farmers.
Atoji, who was assessing the level of preparedness for the 2026 farming season, expressed concern over the delay in the distribution of essential farming inputs, saying many farmers across the state were becoming anxious as the rainy season gradually intensifies.
He recalled that in previous years, farmers had already begun receiving improved seedlings, fertilizers and other support materials through the Benue State Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (BNARDA), sometimes as early as April and May.
According to him, such timely interventions usually enabled farmers to commence planting early, maximizing crop yields.
He however lamented that activities relating to the distribution of farm inputs have remained very low this year, warning that any further delay could negatively affect agricultural productivity and food security in the state.
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He stated that Benue, known as the food basket of the nation, requires deliberate support to sustain its huge contribution to food production in Nigeria.
The AFAN chairman called on government agencies responsible for agriculture to take proactive steps by ensuring that improved seedlings, fertilizers, herbicides and other farming inputs are made available to genuine farmers without delay.
He stated that early planting remains critical to achieving bumper harvests, especially with the current realities of climate change and unpredictable rainfall patterns.
Atoji also urged the government to strengthen extension services and ensure that farmers in rural communities are adequately reached with modern farming techniques and support programmes.
He said that many small holder farmers depend heavily on government interventions to cultivate large hectares of farmland at every planting season.
The AFAN chairman expressed optimism that with adequate support and timely intervention from both the Federal and State governments, Benue farmers would record a successful farming season capable of boosting food supply and improving the livelihoods of rural dwellers
