Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has launched the 2025/2026 dry season farming programme at Sarma community, Akuyam, Misau Local Government Area, emphasising agriculture’s critical role in driving food security, job creation, and economic growth.
Speaking at the event on Monday, the governor highlighted his administration’s deliberate reforms and bold investments in agriculture since 2019, which, he noted, aimed at transforming the sector into a robust engine for prosperity.
Key initiatives implemented by his administration, the governor said, include launching a comprehensive agricultural policy, reviving the Bauchi State Agricultural Development Program (BASDP), and strengthening extension services to provide farmers with direct guidance.
According to him, his government has also reactivated the Bauchi State Agricultural Supply Company (BASAC) to ensure a regular supply of quality fertilisers and agrochemicals at subsidised rates.
Additionally, the governor noted that his administration has revamped the Bauchi Fertiliser Blending Plant, clearing nearly N1 billion in liabilities and restarting production.
Bala Mohammed boasted that the Bauchi fertiliser company’s product is now recognised as one of the best in the market, with plans to expand production and attract investors.
Governor Mohammed announced plans to procure 300 additional tractors and 30 combined harvesters in 2026, refurbish existing equipment, and establish a robust tractor hiring system to make mechanisation accessible and affordable for smallholder farmers.
He urged local government chairmen to ensure the tractors benefit the intended communities and smallholder farmers.
The governor emphasised that agriculture is not just about machines but about people, highlighting the training of farmers and efforts to improve productivity.
He also appealed to farmers and stakeholders to curb the smuggling of subsidised fertilisers to neighbouring states and countries, stressing that such practices undermine the state’s agricultural development.
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