Government brings back subsidy, reduces fuel price to N600
The Borno State government, led by Babagana Umara Zulum, has reintroduced a fuel subsidy regime aimed specifically at supporting farmers in regions affected by the Boko Haram insurgency.
This initiative is aimed at alleviating the financial burdens faced by these farmers, who have experienced significant economic and infrastructural challenges due to years of conflict.
Borno State envisaged that the subsidy will reduce the price of petrol for farmers from approximately N1,000 to N1,200 per litre down to N600 per litre.
This substantial reduction is intended to make fuel more affordable for irrigation farming, which is critical for agricultural productivity in the region.
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Though the annoucement was received with joy, most citizens of the state are skeptical, saying they see Governor Zulum as a media savvy person who used such pronoucement to advance his showmanship nature. They said they must see a sustained implementation before they would comment.
Alongside the fuel subsidy, Governor Zulum announced the distribution of various agricultural inputs to over 5,000 farmers in Bama town. These inputs include 2,000 bags of blended NPK fertilizer, 1,000 units of water pumps, 620 units of gasoline pumps, 380 units of solar water pumps, 1,000 units of sprayers, 800 rolls of two-inch flexible hoses and 1,000 litres of pesticides and seeds
The Borno State Commissioner for Agriculture was ordered to collaborate with military authorities to ensure that the subsidized petroleum products are delivered promptly to farmers in Bama town. This logistical support aims to streamline access to essential resources needed for farming activities.
The Borno governor referenced a similar initiative implemented last year in Damasak within Mobar Local Government Area that reportedly led to increased food production and improved livelihoods among local farmers. This past success serves as a model for the current subsidy program.
In addition to providing subsidies and agricultural inputs, Governor Zulum’s administration has been active in constructing tube wells for irrigation purposes—over 100 have been completed with plans for an additional 250 wells approved.
The Borno governor expressed gratitude towards the federal government for its support in rebuilding communities affected by insurgency and emphasized his administration’s commitment to resettlement efforts without allowing any sabotage.
