Kwara senator disburses N1.5bn in agric inputs to farmers

Senator Saliu Mustapha, representing Kwara Central Senatorial District, has launched a significant agricultural support program, distributing over N1.5 billion worth of inputs to thousands of smallholder farmers across Kwara State. The initiative, branded the Renewed Hope Farmers Support Scheme, directly aligns with the Federal Government's broader agenda to enhance food security and increase domestic food production.

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This intervention is designed to improve agricultural productivity and support the Federal Government’s food security drive. I urge all beneficiaries to make effective use of these inputs to boost food production during this farming season.

The distribution ceremony, held in Ilorin, saw beneficiaries receive essential farming materials. These include 5,000 bags of NPK fertilizer, 2,500 bags of urea, 1,000 knapsack sprayers, 250 power tillers, and 500 water pumps. Senator Mustapha, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Agriculture Production Services and Rural Development, emphasized that the program's goal is to empower farmers, improve crop yields, and ultimately strengthen the nation's food security.

Mustapha urged the recipients to utilize the provided inputs effectively during the current farming season, highlighting that supporting smallholder farmers is a crucial strategy for combating rising food prices, improving rural livelihoods, and fostering sustainable agricultural development. He noted that the program is a practical implementation of President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes agricultural self-sufficiency and economic empowerment.

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This support has come at the right time. It will improve the productivity of farmers and encourage many more people to engage in agriculture.

Farmers' representatives expressed gratitude for the timely intervention. Shuaibu Salman, Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria in Kwara State, stated that the support would significantly enhance farming activities and boost food production. Mallam Soliu Mohammed, Kwara State Chairman of the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria, commended Mustapha's consistent commitment to agricultural development in the state, adding that the inputs would greatly aid rice production.

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The senator has consistently shown his commitment to the development of agriculture in Kwara State. These inputs will go a long way in supporting farmers and improving rice production.