By Chinedu Okafor, African Agricultural Correspondent
The Federal Government, in partnership with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) through its Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP), has commenced the distribution of 2025/2026 dry season farming inputs to rice farmers in Taraba State.
A total of 260 farmers across six Local Government Areas—Ardo-Kola, Bali, Donga, Gassol, Karim-Lamido, and Wukari—are set to benefit from the initiative aimed at boosting food production and strengthening rural livelihoods.
Prof. Nicholas Namessan, Taraba’s Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, flagged off the programme, reaffirming the state government’s commitment to supporting VCDP in enhancing production, processing, and marketing. Represented by Mrs. Sarah Ali, the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Namessan praised the Federal Government and IFAD for their sustained efforts in uplifting rural farmers.
Dr. Fatima Aliyu, VCDP’s National Programme Coordinator, noted that the distribution was part of ongoing measures to reinforce the production base of farmers. Represented by Alhaji Shehu Ibrahim, she urged beneficiaries to maximize the support provided, stressing that the initiative contributes directly to national food security.
Under the VCDP matching grant scheme, each farmer will receive four bags of NPK fertiliser, two bags of urea, 50 kilograms of rice seed, and two litres of herbicide (both pre- and post-emergence). The package is valued at ₦333,500 per farmer, with beneficiaries contributing 50 percent (₦166,750) as their matching grant.
Mr. Irimiya Musa, VCDP’s State Programme Coordinator, commended Governor Agbu Kefas for his consistent counterpart funding, which has ensured the programme’s success. He also acknowledged the support of Prof. Namessan and other stakeholders in sustaining the initiative.
The distribution marks another milestone in the government’s drive to empower farmers, improve rural incomes, and secure Nigeria’s food future.