The federal government, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, has commenced distribution of agricultural inputs to 200 cooperative groups of smallholders across Taraba State.

Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Abubakar Kyari launched the initiative on Friday in Jalingo, saying the goal is to increase food production and strengthen Nigeria’s food security.

Represented by Umar Mohammed, an assistant director in the ministry, Mr Kyari disclosed that more than 200 farmer groups were selected and all received the farming inputs completely free of charge.

Mr Kyari warned the beneficiaries not to sell the inputs but to use them responsibly.

He stressed the importance of the initiative in achieving national food sustainability goals.

He explained that the beneficiaries included commodity groups, cooperatives, persons with disabilities, women and youth associations, and other agricultural stakeholders across the state.

Mr Kyari said the programme covered all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

“Items distributed include sprayers, water pumps, pesticides, fungicides, tillers, cocoa fertilisers, and improved seeds, among other vital inputs to aid crop cultivation and irrigation,” the minister stated.

Joseph Ameri, acting state coordinator, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in Taraba, hailed the minister’s support and specific interest in the state’s agricultural potential.

Mr Ameri described Taraba as an agricultural powerhouse, adding that the gesture would boost food production and enhance the state’s contribution to national and regional agricultural output.

Hassan Maikasuwa, special adviser to Governor Agbu Kefas on food security, thanked the federal government for supporting farmers and aligning with the state’s agricultural vision.

Janet Kuni, who represented women in agriculture, expressed gratitude to the federal government, noting that the support will significantly enhance women’s contributions to food production.

(NAN)