Benue Governor Kicks Off 2025 Fertiliser Sales and Distribution Programme

News in brief:

-Governor Hyacinth Alia launched 9,000 metric tons of subsidised fertiliser worth ₦16 billion alongside cashless payments and a yearly sales calendar to ensure transparency and farmer access.

-The state pledged continued support for rice and soybean production, alongside new value-addition projects such as an orange processing factory to create jobs and strengthen Benue’s role in Nigeria’s food system.

As the 2025 farming season gathers momentum, Benue State farmers have received a major boost. Governor Hyacinth Alia has launched the distribution and sale of fertiliser in Makurdi, describing it as part of his administration’s commitment to strengthening agricultural development in Nigeria’s “Food Basket of the Nation.”

The governor disclosed that 9,000 metric tons of fertiliser, packed in 600 truckloads, have been secured for farmers across the state. The supply, valued at over ₦16 billion, will be sold at a subsidised price to ease the burden on smallholder farmers.

“This year, the state will bear 50% of the cost, leaving farmers to pay ₦22,500 per bag,” Alia said. “We want to ensure that no farmer is left behind.”

Addressing Delays and Transparency Issues

Governor Alia admitted that distribution was delayed due to irregularities by contractors in the previous year. He assured that all payments for the current fertiliser supply would be completed before October, paving the way for uninterrupted farming activities.

To build trust, the state has introduced a cashless payment system, meaning farmers can only pay through POS machines at approved selling points. “No divisional agriculture officer will handle the money,” the governor emphasised, stressing that this policy will block leakages and ensure transparency.

Fertiliser Sales Now Have a Calendar

In a bid to end uncertainty, the government has fixed clear timelines:

• Fertiliser sales for rain-fed farming will run between April and June every year.
• Fertiliser sales for dry-season farming will take place between November and January.

“This way, farmers can plan ahead without fear of last-minute shortages,” the governor explained.

Focus on Soybeans, Rice, and Value Addition

Beyond fertiliser, Alia pledged continuous support for rice and soybean farming, in line with the Federal Government’s national soybean expansion strategy. Benue currently leads as Nigeria’s largest soybean producer, and the governor insists the state must keep that edge.

He also revealed a new plan that could transform local markets. Starting December 2025, raw oranges will no longer leave Benue unprocessed. A fruit processing factory is being established to create jobs, add value, and retain wealth within the state. Similar facilities for other crops are also in the pipeline.

Experts Urge Farmers to Seize the Opportunity

Dr Benjamin Ashaver, Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, encouraged farmers to maximise both wet and dry-season farming opportunities. “If we make good use of these inputs, food sufficiency is within reach,” he noted.

Julius Atorough, CEO of Star Fertilizer and Chemicals Company, warned farmers to buy only from approved centres. “The market is flooded with substandard fertiliser. Farmers must be vigilant,” he said.

Why It Matters for Nigerian Agriculture

Fertiliser remains one of the most critical inputs in crop production. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), improved access to quality fertiliser can raise smallholder yields by up to 40%, helping Nigeria reduce its heavy food import bill.

For Nigerian farmers grappling with climate change, erratic rainfall, and rising input costs, Benue’s move offers both relief and a model that other states could adopt.