Kano Governor warns against fertilizer diversion to farmers

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has issued a stern warning to state officials against diverting fertilizer meant for 52,800 farmers across the 44 Local Government Areas.

This warning was delivered during the flag-off of the free fertilizer distribution to farmers at the Open Arena, Government House, Kano, as stated by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Thursday.

Governor Yusuf mandated the Kano Project Protection Association (Kano-PRO-PA) to ensure strict adherence to the distribution guidelines aimed at benefiting smallholder farmers.

He declared, “Any government official found diverting this fertilizer will be dealt with severely. We will not tolerate corruption. This gesture is meant for real farmers.”

In his remarks, the Emir of Kano, Malam Muhammadu Sanusi II, underscored the need for fairness in the distribution process to meet the set objectives.

He pointed out the timely nature of this initiative, given reports from District Heads about the prohibitive cost of fertilizer during the 2024 rainy season, which threatens to cause food shortages.

“The gesture is timely, as we have received reports from District Heads about the high price of fertilizer impeding farming. Ensuring the fertilizer reaches the intended beneficiaries will significantly aid in achieving a bumper harvest,” the Emir stated.

The Emir called on farmers to make good use of the resources provided and urged well-to-do individuals and philanthropists to support farmers and assist the needy during these challenging times.

He lauded the Kano State Government under Governor Yusuf’s leadership for initiating projects aimed at improving the living standards of Kano’s populace.

Malam Muhammadu Sanusi II also prayed for peace, unity, stability, prosperity, and economic development in the state and beyond.