Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Dr Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has launched a ₦16.8 billion fertilizer programme to boost agriculture and reposition the state as Nigeria’s food hub. The scheme is expected to create hundreds of millionaire farmers within two years.
Speaking in Makurdi at the flag-off of the 2025 cropping season and input distribution, the governor said 9,000 metric tonnes (600 truckloads) of fertilizer — NPK, Urea, and SSP — would be distributed at half the market price. Farmers will pay ₦22,500 per bag, while the government covers the rest through subsidy.
Governor Alia explained that the government had finalized plans to clear over ₦5 billion in outstanding debts owed to genuine fertilizer suppliers, noting that fraud by some vendors in 2024 caused delays. He urged young farmers to seize the opportunity, declaring: “Farming is where our wealth is, and it is Benue’s pride.”
The governor also introduced a new agricultural calendar to ensure timely distribution of inputs: April–June for the wet season and November–January for the dry season. He further revealed that from December, oranges will no longer be exported raw, as the state’s new fruit processing factory will handle value addition locally.
At the event, Alia directed that 300 bags of fertilizer be shared to widows present, and encouraged farmer cooperatives to ensure fair distribution. Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Benjamin Ashaver, added that fertilizer sales would now be cashless through POS terminals to curb corruption. He also announced plans for a digital farmers’ register to improve extension services and transparency.
Dr. Julius Atorough, CEO of Star Fertilizer, assured farmers that adulterated fertilizers will be eliminated as the Benue Fertilizer Plant has been revived to produce crop-specific products. The initiative drew praise from the House Committee on Agriculture Chairman, Hon. Emmanuel Shimawua, and the Ter Lobi, HRH Moses Anagende, who said it would restore confidence among farmers and boost productivity.
The colourful ceremony featured ribbon-cutting, music, and cultural performances to mark the new season of agricultural growth.
