Borno State Boosts Food Production with 50% Fertilizer Subsidy and Massive Input Distribution

Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has officially flagged off the 2026 wet farming season, announcing a comprehensive agricultural support package aimed at bolstering food security and empowering local farmers.

At a ceremony held in Kwaya Kusar, a key agricultural hub, the Governor launched the distribution of 200 truckloads of NPK fertilizer, which will be sold to farmers at a 50 percent subsidy. This initiative marks a significant increase from the 75 truckloads provided during the previous farming season.

In addition to the subsidized fertilizer, the state government is providing free agricultural inputs to 120,000 profiled farmers. The package includes 40,000 liters of agrochemicals, 5,000 water pumps, 5,000 knapsack sprayers, 10,000 bicycles to assist with rural mobility, and various post-harvest storage facilities.

Addressing the crowd, Governor Zulum emphasized that the intervention is designed to cover the entire agricultural value chain from land preparation and planting to harvesting and storage. He warned beneficiaries against the diversion or unauthorized resale of the subsidized supplies, stating that the materials are intended strictly for crop production to help drive the state’s socio-economic growth.

“We are committed to strengthening agriculture to guarantee food and nutrition security, create employment, and improve the livelihoods of our people,” the Governor said.

Furthermore, the state announced a N500 million cash support package targeting vulnerable residents, including women and youths, across five local government areas: Biu, Hawul, Kwaya Kusar, Shani, and Bayo.

State officials noted that Borno is steadily becoming a leader in agricultural production due to sustained government investment in irrigation, mechanization, and farmer extension services. The event was attended by traditional rulers, lawmakers, and state government stakeholders, highlighting the administration’s focus on rural development and economic stimulation through farming.