Under the scheme, petrol will be made available to farmers at a subsidised rate of N200 per litre, significantly lower than the prevailing market rate. Photo Credit: Core TV
In a bid to alleviate the challenges faced by farmers in insurgency-affected communities, Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has announced a subsidised petrol initiative.
The intervention aims to support agricultural activities and boost food production in areas recovering from the devastating impact of Boko Haram insurgency.
Speaking during the launch of the initiative in Konduga Local Government Area on January 4, 2025, Governor Zulum stated that the subsidy would help reduce the cost of farming and ease the burden of rising fuel prices.
“This initiative is part of our commitment to empowering our farmers and ensuring food security. Farmers play a vital role in rebuilding our economy, and we must support them in every way possible,” Zulum said.
Subsidy Details
The state government will supply petrol directly to identified farming cooperatives and local communities to prevent exploitation by middlemen.
According to the Commissioner for Agriculture, Bukar Talba, the initiative will initially target over 10,000 farmers across insurgency-hit areas, with plans to expand as resources permit.
“This subsidy will enable farmers to power their irrigation pumps and other machinery, ensuring they can cultivate their lands effectively even during the dry season,” Talba said.
Community Impact
Farmers in the affected communities have expressed gratitude for the initiative, describing it as a lifeline in their efforts to rebuild their livelihoods.
Malam Usman, a farmer from Konduga, said, “This subsidy is a blessing. We have struggled with high fuel prices for years, which made it difficult to irrigate our farms. With this support, we can now increase our harvests and feed our families.”
Addressing Security and Economic Challenges
The subsidy comes at a time when Borno State is making significant strides in recovery from years of insurgency that displaced millions and disrupted agricultural activities. Governor Zulum has consistently prioritised initiatives to rebuild livelihoods, including distributing farming inputs, rebuilding schools, and resettling displaced persons.
However, challenges remain, particularly in ensuring the safety of farmers in areas where sporadic attacks by insurgents still occur. To address this, the state government has enhanced security patrols around farmlands and provided support for local vigilante groups.
Broader Implications
The subsidised petrol initiative aligns with broader efforts by the Nigerian government to revive agriculture as a key driver of economic growth and reduce reliance on oil revenues. Experts believe such targeted interventions can significantly contribute to rebuilding fragile communities and improving food security.
As the scheme unfolds, it is expected to not only support farmers but also contribute to stabilising the economy of Borno State, bringing hope to communities long impacted by conflict.
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