From Olukayode Idowu, Maiduguri
Borno State Government has introduced mechanized farming and built 10 mega farms in ten local government areas of the state to fight hunger and improve food production.
The State’s Commissioner of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Engr. Bukar Talba made the disclosure on Monday in Maiduguri, while explaining the achievements recorded by his ministry in Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum’s one year in office.
He said the ministry through the wisdom of Governor Babagana Zulum cultivated 3,611 hectares of land in the mega farms across the 10 local government areas.
He said the local government areas that benefited from the project include Konduga, Ngala, Dikwa , Mafa, Gubio Damboa, Biu, Askira/Uba , Magumeri and Kaga.
The Commissioner added that the essence of the mega farms is to encourage the farmers return back to their communities to farm and meet their daily needs.
He said adequate security will be provided in the mega farms through the use of agro-rangers, hunters and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force.
Talba further revealed that the State has repaired 56 tractors and constructed four standard steel structured multi-purpose shades for the tractors.
He said: “The ministry in her effort to mechanise farming repaired 56 tractors and provided them with all the accessories for the 2020 farming season. The tractors are now ready for farm operations.
“The ministry supported dry season farmers in Damasak and Biu local government areas and procured water pumps with all its accessories, in addition to agro-chemicals and distributed to farmers at no cost.
“Dry season farming is key to the administration as it creates wealth and enhance the economic status of small scale farmers to produce vegetables and other crops.”