By Yunusa Isa, Gombe
The Upper Benue River Basin Development Authority (UBRBDA) has officially launched a major agricultural support initiative aimed at transforming food production and rural livelihoods across Gombe, Yobe, and Borno states.
Spearheaded by the Managing Director of the Authority, Dr. Mahmud Sunusi Muhammad, the first phase of the programme is designed to reach roughly 5,000 genuine farmers and fishers spread across 87 communities before the end of the 2026 rainy season.
Represented by the Area Manager, Daɗinkowa Area Office, Alhaji Dr. Abubakar Muhammad Bello, during the official flag-off at Bajoga, the headquarters of Funakaye Local Government, the manager said “This timely intervention forms a crucial part of the broader agricultural support agenda championed by the Federal Government under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu”.
He noted that by directly targeting rural producers, the initiative seeks to counter economic pressures, drive down operational costs, and build lasting resilience against food insecurity in Nigeria’s northeast region.
He emphasized the high quality of the distributed inputs and urged beneficiaries to utilize them effectively to maximize their yield.
“The Authority remains committed to supporting farmers and ensuring that agricultural inputs reach those who need them most to enhance food production and strengthen food security,” Dr. Bello stated.
He further noted that the comprehensive relief package extends beyond fertilizers to include storage solutions and aquatic gear.
Beneficiaries received high-grade fertilizers, durable Bagco sacks designed for safe post-harvest produce storage, and specialized fishing nets tailored for fishermen operating along the river basin’s extensive catchment areas.
The holistic approach ensures that both crop farmers and local fishers encompassing upstream and downstream water users receive vital resources to optimize their trades.
The beneficiaries warmly welcomed the federal intervention, noting its direct impact on easing financial burdens during a critical phase of the agricultural calendar.
One of the beneficiaries Malam Danjuma Sani Ashaka, said “These free fertiliser, fishing nets and Bagco sacks will help reduce production costs, improve farming and fishing activities, and increase food production across the benefiting communities”.
Others who spoke in appreciation of the intervention included Alhaji Gado Malleri, Adamu Chindo, Abubakar Isah, Alhaji Usman Mai Agogo, Dallatu Kinafa, Alhaji Garba Umar Tabacco, and Muhammad Bello Ashaka.
They expressed strong optimism that the UBRBDA initiative will drive substantial economic growth, bolster regional agricultural development, and safeguard food security for families across Gombe, Yobe, and Borno states for years to come.
The stakeholders and beneficiaries pledged to make judicious, responsible use of the farming inputs.