Farmers seek subsidised farm inputs to boost food production in Taraba

Farmers in the Takum council area of Taraba have appealed to the government to provide fertilisers and other farm inputs to enhance agricultural productivity and improve food security. The farmers made the appeal in separate interviews on Sunday in Takum, Taraba.

They said the high cost and limited availability of fertilisers and other essential farm inputs had become major constraints as the rainy season commenced.

The farmers noted that timely access to fertilisers, herbicides, pesticides and other inputs at subsidised rates would boost agricultural activities and help reduce hunger.

Micah Audu, a rice farmer, said the rising cost of fertilisers and other farm inputs remained a major challenge confronting farmers.

Mr Audu urged governments at all levels to subsidise the cost of farm inputs and provide greater support to farmers.

“Government should prioritise agriculture by supporting farmers financially and ensuring the availability of farm inputs at subsidised rates to boost productivity and strengthen food security,” he said.

Tanko Garba, a rice and maize farmer, appealed to the government and well-meaning individuals to support farmers with fertilisers and financial assistance.

“I appeal to the government to support farmers with chemicals, fertilisers, machinery and capital to improve production,” Mr Garba said.

Nwukaba Ali, who cultivates millet, maize, egusi and groundnuts, said inadequate funds to purchase fertilisers at current market prices were her greatest challenge.

Mr Ali said she had yet to receive any form of assistance from either the government or private organisations.

“My major challenge is poor access to fertilisers and the high cost of farm inputs. I have not received any assistance from the government or private individuals,” she said.

Japhet Phillip, another rice farmer, said the high cost of farm inputs and their late arrival were affecting farming activities.

Mr Phillip appealed to the government to ensure that fertilisers and other inputs were made available to farmers before the planting season.

“Seeds, fertilisers and chemicals are very expensive this year. A bag of fertiliser that used to be affordable is now beyond the reach of many farmers.

“By the time fertilisers get to us, the planting window has almost passed. Government should make fertilisers available and  affordable before the farming season begins,” he said.  NAN