FG Flags Off Free Distribution of Farm Inputs, Machinery to Smallholder Farmers in Niger State

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has launched the free distribution of all-year-round farm inputs and machinery to smallholder farmers in Niger State.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony on Friday, September 12, 2025, the Minister of State for Agriculture, Senator Sabi Abdullahi, described the initiative as part of government strategies to tackle challenges hindering the achievement of national food security.

He emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and the private sector to drive economic growth, create jobs, and reduce poverty. Abdullahi also tasked the media with monitoring and reporting irregularities that could deny genuine farmers access to government interventions.

On his part, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi, disclosed that 35 percent of the intervention has been reserved for women farmers, in line with the National Gender Policy on Agriculture.

Host Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, who officially flagged off the exercise, said the Federal Government’s move would support Niger State’s agricultural drive. He further pledged that his administration would lead efforts to revive the Cooperative Bank to address high interest rates that limit farmers’ access to loans.