Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to subsidize petrol costs for farmers in communities ravaged by the Boko Haram insurgency. This bold move, announced on Friday in Bama town, coincided with the flag-off ceremony for the distribution of vital farm inputs to over 5,000 farmers who were previously displaced by insurgent activities.
Unprecedented Relief for Farmers
Under this scheme, petrol, which sells for N1,000 to N1,200 per litre in Maiduguri, will be made available to farmers at a significantly reduced rate of N600 per litre. Governor Zulum emphasized that this initiative is aimed at easing the financial strain on farmers in conflict-affected regions, many of whom rely on irrigation farming to rebuild their livelihoods.
“This subsidy is designed to address one of the most pressing challenges faced by our farmers, high fuel costs,” Zulum stated. “Last year’s similar intervention in Damasak, Mobar Local Government Area, resulted in remarkable increases in food production and improved the quality of life for our people. We are determined to replicate that success.”
Comprehensive Support for Agricultural Revival
To ensure immediate implementation, Zulum directed the Commissioner for Agriculture to collaborate with the Brigade Commander for the swift delivery of petrol to farmers in Bama town. Beyond the petrol subsidy, the governor announced a substantial distribution of farming inputs, including:
2,000 bags of blended NPK fertilizer, 1,000 water pumps, 620 gasoline pumps, 380 solar water pumps, 1,000 sprayers, 800 rolls of 2-inch flexible hose, 1,000 litres of pesticides, Seeds and other essential items
The administration has also completed the construction of over 100 tube wells for irrigation farmers and approved the construction of an additional 250, further reinforcing its commitment to agricultural development.
Commitment to Reconstruction and Resettlement
In addition to supporting farmers, Governor Zulum visited Darajama and Goniri villages within Bama Local Government to assess ongoing reconstruction efforts. He expressed satisfaction with the progress but issued a stern warning against any attempts to undermine the government’s resettlement agenda.
“Our administration is resolute in restoring normalcy and rebuilding the lives of our people. No act of sabotage will be tolerated,” he affirmed.
Governor Zulum extended his gratitude to the federal government for its unwavering support in the reconstruction and resettlement of communities devastated by insurgency.
A Vision for Prosperity
Governor Zulum’s multifaceted approach to addressing the challenges faced by farmers and rebuilding affected communities underscores his administration’s commitment to fostering resilience and economic recovery in Borno State. By prioritizing agricultural empowerment and infrastructural renewal, Zulum is not only tackling the immediate aftermath of insurgency but also laying the foundation for a sustainable future.
