The Sokoto State Government has cracked down on fertiliser diversion as it distributes free agricultural inputs to farmers across the state. Six trucks carrying 3,600 bags of fertiliser arrived in Kebbe Local Government Area for distribution ahead of the 2026 farming season.
Retired Colonel Garba Moyi Isa, chairman of the Fertiliser Distribution Committee in Kebbe, said the intervention formed part of Governor Ahmed Aliyu's agricultural support programme. He explained the move aimed to boost food production, enhance farmer incomes and strengthen food security in the state.
Each of the 124 polling units in the local government area would receive 15 bags of NPK fertiliser and five bags of Urea. This approach ensures equitable sharing among genuine farmers across communities.
Isa stressed the state government provided the fertiliser at no cost and warned against diversion or resale. "We have put in place a transparent mechanism to ensure that only genuine farmers benefit from this programme," he said.
Anyone caught diverting or selling the commodity would face sanctions, he added. He called on community leaders, political stakeholders, ward officials and security agencies to monitor distribution and report abuses.
The committee chairman praised Governor Aliyu for prioritising agriculture and supporting farmers. He commended the governor's commitment through fertiliser provision and other agricultural inputs.
Kebbe Local Government chairman Hon. Musa Garba Kuchi also warned against middlemen and speculators exploiting the intervention.
He made clear the fertiliser belonged exclusively to farmers and not to traders or other commercial actors.
"This fertiliser belongs to the farmers. It is not meant for traders, speculators or middlemen," Kuchi stated.
He vowed the local government would not tolerate diversion, hoarding or resale of the free inputs.
Kuchi urged beneficiaries to use the inputs wisely to improve harvest yields and aid the state's agricultural development. He called on traditional rulers, community leaders and youth groups to help monitor the programme.
He warned that fertiliser diversion would harm farmers and weaken government efforts to raise food production. Stakeholders at the event praised Sokoto State Government for the timely intervention.
They noted the action comes as agricultural production costs continue rising and food security needs strengthen. The distribution programme reflects the state government's broader push to empower smallholder farmers and boost productivity across Sokoto State.
