Gombe pegs fertiliser sales at N19,000 per bag
Chima Azubuike
Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, on Monday pegged fertiliser sales at N19,000, adding that it was in a bid to ensure food security and economic prosperity for farmers.
He made this disclosure during the state’s commencement of distribution of fertiliser organised by the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry.
According to Yahaya, the government had provided over 25 per cent as subsidy following the reduction from actual N26,000 in the market.
He said, “You will recall that for the 2022 farming season, we procured and distributed 125 trucks of NPK fertiliser at subsidised rate. In this year’s cropping season, the Government has procured 160 trucks (5000 MT) of fertiliser at the cost of N2,837,500,000.00.
“Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, having considered the high cost of fertiliser in the market and the need to support our farmers, the State Government has decided to fix the price of fertilizer at N19, 000 for a bag of NPK representing 25% subsidy as against the market price of over N26, 000.”
While lauding the partnership between farmers and the State Government, Yahaya promised to provide better enabling environment, adding that, “I would like to thank our local farmers for their contribution towards the growth and resilience of our agricultural sector. Your hard work and commitment are invaluable, and we recognize the vital role you play in ensuring food security and sustainable agricultural development in Gombe State and Nigeria at large. I want to assure you of our continuous support and interventions.”
On his part, Director of Planning, Research and Statistics Dr Ibrahim Usman lauded the governor for the timely distribution of fertiliser and other farm inputs.
“Timely procurement and distribution of fertilisers, agro chemicals and farm equipment to our teeming farmers at subsidised rate,” Usman said.
Usman who doubles as acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry urged farmers to support his staff for effective distribution, adding “I wish to appeal to all caretaker chairmen of the Local Government Areas and other stakeholders to co-operate with our staff for effective and successful fertiliser distribution and sales.”
Also, acting State Director Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development Gabriel Yila, said the distribution would ensure national food security, adding “through the governor’s regular visit to ensure the state gets fair share of Federal Government’s programme.”
