Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has introduced a petrol subsidy to support irrigation farmers affected by years of insurgency. The subsidy will allow farmers to buy petrol at ₦600 per litre, significantly cheaper than the usual ₦1,000 to ₦1,200 per litre in Maiduguri.
Governor Zulum announced this initiative during the distribution of farming supplies to over 5,000 farmers in Bama town. He explained that the high cost of fuel has been a major challenge for farmers and expressed hope that this subsidy would reduce their financial burden and boost food production.
“As of now, petrol costs around ₦1,200 per litre in Maiduguri. However, for irrigation farmers, it will now be sold at ₦600 per litre,” Zulum said.
Support for Farmers
In addition to the fuel subsidy, the governor distributed various farming tools and resources, including:
- 2,000 bags of NPK fertiliser
- 1,000 water pumps
- 620 gasoline pumps
- 380 solar-powered water pumps
- 1,000 sprayers
- 800 rolls of flexible hoses
- 1,000 litres of pesticides
- Seeds
These supplies are aimed at improving agricultural activities and food security in areas recovering from insurgency.
Previous Success in Damasak
Governor Zulum cited similar efforts in Damasak, Mobar Local Government Area, where support provided last year helped farmers improve food production and living standards. He hopes to replicate this success in Bama and other affected communities.
Efficient Delivery
To ensure the subsidy reaches the farmers quickly, Zulum directed the Commissioner for Agriculture to work with the local Brigade Commander to oversee the delivery of petrol to farmers in Bama.
This initiative is expected to help farmers recover from years of economic hardship caused by insurgency and contribute to increased agricultural output in the region.
This move is part of Borno State’s broader efforts to rebuild its agricultural sector and support its residents in rebuilding their livelihoods.p