The Kaduna State Government, in collaboration with the African Union Development Agency–New Partnership for Africa’s Development (AUDA–NEPAD) Nigeria, has launched the distribution of agricultural inputs to about 400 smallholder farmers across the state.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony held at Arewa House, Kaduna, Governor Uba Sani, represented by hid chief of staff, Sani Liman Kila reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to empowering smallholder farmers and enhancing agricultural productivity, describing agriculture as “the backbone of Kaduna’s economy and a key driver of inclusive growth.”
“Smallholder farmers form the backbone of our agricultural system. Supporting them means strengthening our economy, securing our food supply, and uplifting thousands of households,” Governor Sani stated.
The Governor noted that agriculture remains a top priority for his administration, with over ₦10 billion allocated to the sector in the 2025 budget, adding that Kaduna is the only state in Nigeria that has met the Malabo Declaration targets on agricultural investment.
AUDA–NEPAD Commends Kaduna’s Support and Vision
In his remarks, Hon. Jabir Abdullahi Tsauri, Chief Executive Officer of AUDA–NEPAD Nigeria, commended the Kaduna State Government for providing the counterpart funding that enabled the program’s expansion to all 23 local government areas.
Tsauri revealed that 345 smallholder farmers have been trained in good agronomic practices and climate-smart agriculture, including backyard farming of tomatoes, sweet peppers, maize, cowpeas, and soybeans.
“These inputs are not just farming materials; they are instruments of hope and productivity,” he emphasized.
He noted that the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, both of which emphasize inclusive, sustainable, and climate-resilient agriculture as the foundation for economic prosperity.
Kaduna Prioritizes Food Security and Climate Resilience
The Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon. Murtala Dabo, stated that the program underscores the government’s determination to make agriculture a viable enterprise rather than merely a way of life.
He noted that Governor Uba Sani’s administration remains committed to partnerships that drive rural transformation, climate resilience, and food security across the state.
Dabo commended AUDA–NEPAD for its continued collaboration and assured that Kaduna State would remain a reliable partner for development agencies advancing agricultural innovation and farmer empowerment.
