Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transforming agriculture in the state, unveiling an ambitious plan to produce hundreds of millionaire farmers within the next two years. The declaration was made during the official flag-off of the 2025 cropping season and distribution of subsidized fertilizers and farm inputs in Makurdi, where Governor Alia emphasized that repositioning Benue as Nigeria’s agricultural powerhouse remains a top priority.
Apologizing for the delay in the flag-off, the Governor explained that the state has finalized arrangements to pay over ₦5 billion owed to genuine fertilizer suppliers from the previous season, noting that fraudulent practices by some vendors in 2024 caused the hold-up. “We want to make hundreds of millionaires from farming. Young farmers should take advantage of this support. Farming is where our money is, and it is where Benue’s pride lies,” he said.
Governor Alia announced a new agricultural calendar, with wet season inputs distributed between April and June and dry season inputs between November and January to ensure timely access for farmers. As part of the 2025 program, the government is providing 9,000 metric tonnes of fertilizers – including NPK, Urea, and SSP – valued at ₦16.8 billion, with a 50 percent subsidy. Farmers will therefore access fertilizer at ₦22,500 per bag, while the government covers the balance.
Highlighting value addition, the Governor pledged that from December, no oranges will be exported out of Benue in raw form, as the state’s new fruit processing factory will absorb local produce. He called on youths to embrace farming and stressed that Benue must retain its number one position in soyabean production nationwide. He also announced that 300 bags of fertilizer would be distributed to widows present at the event, while farmer cooperatives were urged to ensure transparent distribution.
In his address, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Benjamin Ashaver, detailed reforms to eliminate corruption in farm input distribution. All fertilizer sales will now be processed cashlessly through POS terminals at accredited centers, with payments made directly to suppliers’ accounts. A credible farmers’ register and a hybrid digital platform are being deployed to enhance transparency, close extension service gaps, and provide real-time support to farmers.
Dr. Julius Atorough, CEO of Star Fertilizer, assured stakeholders that adulterated fertilizer will be eliminated, revealing investments to revive the moribund Benue Fertilizer Plant and produce crop-specific fertilizers suited to local soils. “From today, Benue farmers can be sure of getting quality fertilizers. We will establish outlets across the state to end the circulation of fake products. Hold us accountable for our promise,” he said.
Other dignitaries, including the Benue State House of Assembly Committee Chairman on Agriculture, Hon. Emmanuel Shimawua, and the Ter Lobi, HRH Moses Anagende, praised the government’s efforts in supporting farmers and improving security, noting that many farmers are already returning to their fields. The event featured a ceremonial cutting of the tape, cultural performances, songs, music, and dance.
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