Public relations expert and celebrity journalist, Oladapo Adekunle Sofowora, has commended the significant agricultural initiatives spearheaded by Zamfara State Governor, Dr. Dauda Lawal.
In an impressive effort to enhance food security and support local farmers, the state has successfully distributed 59,205 bags of fertiliser using 98 trucks. Beyond fertilisers, the initiative also entailed the distribution of 34,800 kilograms of rice seeds, 80,000 kilograms of maize seeds, 23,740 litres of herbicides, 11,735 litres of insecticides, and 23,470 sachets of seed dressing chemicals. These resources are crucial in bolstering crop yields during the upcoming wet season, a vital period for agricultural production in the region.
In a statement, Sofowora, who is also the Founder of Rudder Blade Global Company praised the initiative of providing free fertilizers, asserting that it could effectively mitigate the escalating food prices across Nigeria.
He emphasised that such measures encourage more individuals to engage in farming, directly contributing to a reduction in food costs nationwide.
“Governor Lawal has made an impactful decision,” he noted, “especially considering that many farmers are grappling with insecurity issues, which have compelled them to abandon their lands and farming, their primary source of income. The generous distribution of fertilisers and other essential agricultural materials aligns perfectly with the presidential action plan aimed at revitalising the agricultural sector, fostering food security, and reducing the nation’s overreliance on food imports.”
Sofowora further highlighted that Lawal’s approach to agriculture is an integral aspect of life for the people of Zamfara, demonstrating the government’s commitment not only to infrastructural development but also to the advancement of the agricultural sector.
This commitment is crucial for national development, job creation, and attracting foreign direct investment. He, along with many stakeholders, is optimistic that the state’s agricultural landscape will soon experience a significant transformation, as innovative measures, including a more digitised system for tracking and monitoring the distribution of resources, ensure that the necessary supplies reach the farmers who need them most.
“In the next two to three months, we are anticipating a remarkable agricultural bounty,” he asserted with confidence.
In addition, Lawal assured farmers of his administration’s ongoing support, promising that they would have guaranteed buyers through government-sponsored off-take agreements. This commitment aims not only to provide farmers with a stable income but also to stimulate local agricultural productivity.
Furthermore, the recently launched school feeding programme in Zamfara State is designed to source its agricultural products directly from local farmers. This initiative will not only enhance farmers’ profitability but also encourage them to reinvest in their farming ventures, thereby positively impacting trade and commercial activities throughout the state.