Sokoto State launches N7.7 bn free fertilizer giveaway and tractor procurement program

Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State inaugurated the distribution of 157,800 bags of NPK and urea fertilizer, valued at about N7.7 billion, to farmers across the state’s 23 local government areas. The free inputs, including 7,800 bags of improved seeds, herbicides and insecticides, are intended for the 2026 wet season and aim to raise yields, lower production costs and improve food security.

The government also awarded a N22.1 billion contract for 250 Massey Ferguson MF375 tractors and implements, with roughly 90 % of the units already delivered, and announced federal approval for an additional 100 Belarus tractors financed through the Bank of Agriculture. The initiative follows a suspension of earlier free‑fertilizer schemes after diversion by middlemen; new monitoring measures are in place to ensure genuine farmers benefit.