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Farmers across Kwara State have commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his transformational impact on the agricultural sector, particularly through easier access to mechanized farming with tractors and improved input distribution, which they described as unprecedented.
Their sentiments were echoed during a live radio programme, “APC Gbode”, on Harmony 103.5FM Idofian, where the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Afees Abolore Alabi, featured to speak on recent sectoral developments.
The farmers who called in described the input distribution process as the most transparent and inclusive the State has seen in recent years, crediting the Governor for ensuring that support reached farmers at the grass roots without political interference.
Dr. Alabi disclosed that tractors have been made available across all local government areas, emphasizing that the use of the tractors are entirely free, with farmers required to pay ₦15,000 only for maintenance, rather than the usual ₦75,000 to ₦100,000 previously paid per hectare.
He noted that access is open to all farmers across the State, regardless of background, local government, religion, or political affiliation.
Dr Afeez Abolore Alabi urged beneficiaries to make responsible use of the equipment and ensure adequate maintenance for sustainability.
The Commissioner also acknowledged the role of all Council Chairmen and members of the Kwara State Welfare Support Committee in overseeing the distribution process, reflecting the administration’s commitment to inclusion and transparency.
He encouraged farmers to leverage ongoing training opportunities through the Kwara Agricultural Development Project (ADP), and noted that the State is currently studying innovative agricultural practices in the United States and Brazil, with plans to replicate suitable models to strengthen Kwara’s agricultural value chain.
To further engage citizens, the Ministry will continue weekly sensitization programmes featuring trainings, weather updates, agricultural tips, and more.
These ongoing efforts reflect not only the Governor’s deliberate and sustained commitment to making agriculture a cornerstone of development in Kwara, but also the coordinated work of the Ministry and its partners. With improved access, transparency, and forward-thinking policies, the State is positioning its farmers for long-term success and building a resilient agricultural future that benefits every household and community across Kwara.
Kwara’s agricultural agenda under the current administration continues to set the pace for inclusive growth and rural development across Nigeria.
By Ameen Ayinla
