Wedoany.com Report on Feb 7th, The Federal Government recently provided farm machinery and agricultural inputs to approximately 10,000 smallholder farmers in Kogi State, aiming to enhance local food production and improve rural livelihoods. This initiative is part of the government's program to support agricultural development.

The distribution activity was launched at the Ministry's Lokoja office under the leadership of the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari. Beneficiary farmers received items including power tillers, knapsack sprayers, liquid fertilizers, herbicides, and water pumps, with a total value running into billions of Naira. These farm machines and inputs will help farmers reduce production costs and improve farming efficiency.

In addition to Kogi State, farmers in Abia, Anambra, Cross River, Imo, Kwara, Rivers, and Yobe States will also receive similar support through cooperatives, commodity associations, and special programs. Special needs groups and internally displaced persons have also been included in the assistance scope.

Through the Deputy Minister, Abdulmalik Abdul-Ganiyu, Minister Kyari stated that the program aims to make essential agricultural inputs more accessible to smallholder farmers with limited resources. He noted, "The goal is to empower farmers, increase food production, address food security issues, and contribute to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals."

Kogi State Commissioner for Agriculture, Timothy Ojoma, emphasized that this intervention is inclusive, covering all agricultural cooperatives. He advised farmers to make full use of the machinery and inputs to enhance productivity during the dry season.

Local cooperative representatives and female farmers welcomed the support. The President of the Federation of Nigeria Agricultural Cooperatives Limited, Esther Odu, stated that this reflects the government's commitment to rural development. The Kogi State Chairman of AFAN, Saliu Adobani, encouraged beneficiaries to utilize the materials effectively to increase output and improve their standard of living.

By distributing farm machinery and inputs, the Federal Government aims to tangibly boost food production in Kogi State and surrounding areas, providing momentum for sustainable agricultural development.