Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has given his approval for the distribution of 312 tractors to farmers’ cooperatives across the state. Each of the 312 wards in Borno’s 27 local government areas will receive one tractor. The tractors have been provided on loan at a discounted rate of 50% off the market price.
The governor announced the tractor allocations during a ceremony held at the state’s farm center, situated along the Maiduguri-Gamboru highway in Jere Local Government Area. However, Governor Zulum has set certain conditions for the distribution process. He stated that each ward must form an agricultural cooperative society consisting of a minimum of five and a maximum of ten members.
Furthermore, Governor Zulum emphasized that the tractors allocated must not be sold or utilized outside of Borno State. This measure ensures that the farming machinery remains within the state to benefit local farmers.
Governor Zulum also highlighted the efforts made by his administration to boost agricultural activities. He mentioned that his administration had acquired over 312 plowing and harrowing facilities. Additionally, during the tenure of former Governor Kashim Shettima, who is now the Vice President, more than 1,000 tractors were procured.
Subsidized Fertilizer Program Launched
In conjunction with the tractor allocation, Governor Zulum initiated the sale of subsidized fertilizer to farmers for the upcoming 2023 cropping season. The governor emphasized that the bags of fertilizer would be distributed to deserving farmers at a discounted rate of less than 25% of the market price.
To support farmers, the Borno State Government has made over 100 trucks of blended NPK fertilizers available for purchase at significantly reduced prices. The governor assured farmers that they would be able to acquire the fertilizers at a rate 25% lower than the actual market prices.
“The government of Borno State has procured 100 trucks of fertilizer, and we will ensure that deserving farmers benefit from this exercise,” Governor Zulum affirmed.
With the distribution of tractors and subsidized fertilizer, Governor Zulum’s administration aims to enhance agricultural productivity, boost food security, and improve the livelihoods of farmers in Borno State.
