2025 Kwara Agro Input Fair gets underway

Kwara State has reaffirmed its dedication to agricultural transformation with the launch of the 2025 Kwara Agro Input Fair, a strategic initiative aimed at equipping farmers with essential resources to boost food production. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, represented by Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi, underscored the state’s commitment to fostering an innovative, self-sufficient agricultural economy that drives productivity and stabilizes food prices.

The five-day event, organized by the Kwara Agricultural Development Project (KWADP) under the State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, serves as a platform to provide early access to high-quality agro inputs at subsidized rates, alongside training on modern farming techniques, mechanization support, and climate resilience strategies.

Governor AbdulRazaq noted that Kwara maintained the lowest food inflation rate in Nigeria for three consecutive months last year, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). He attributed this success to smart agricultural policies and strategic investments, applauding local farmers for their role in ensuring food sufficiency.

According to Oloruntoyosi Thomas, Commissioner for Agriculture, the fair is designed to equip farmers with essential tools and knowledge for increased productivity. Key highlights include:

• Subsidized Inputs: Access to fertilizers, improved seeds, and agrochemicals at reduced prices.
• Mechanization Support: Provision of tractors and modern farming equipment to ease production.
• Climate Advisory & Training: Farmers will receive guidance from NiMET (Nigerian Meteorological Agency) on climate-smart agriculture and weather patterns.
• Market Access & Security: Support for outgrower schemes, market linkages, and security awareness for agribusinesses.

Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Umar Mahmud Aboki, commended the initiative, describing it as a clear commitment to improving farmers’ livelihoods and enhancing agricultural sustainability in the state.
Source- Guardian

Expert Review for Agri-Food Stakeholders
The 2025 Kwara Agro Input Fair signals a progressive shift towards agribusiness sustainability in Nigeria. Key takeaways for stakeholders:

1. Enhanced Access to Quality Inputs
   – The fair offers timely distribution of farm inputs at subsidized rates, ensuring farmers can plan for the season ahead without supply chain delays.
   – This will improve crop yields and food availability, reducing the cost of staple foods over time.
2. Market Linkages & Agribusiness Growth
   – The integration of outgrower schemes presents a significant opportunity for agribusinesses to partner with smallholders and enhance value chain development.
   – Strengthening market access will encourage contract farming, reducing post-harvest losses and increasing farmer profitability.
3. Mechanization & Productivity Boost
   – Access to tractors and mechanized farming tools will reduce reliance on manual labor, addressing productivity gaps, especially among smallholder farmers.
   – Expansion into dry-season farming means year-round food production, improving food security and agribusiness returns.
4. Climate Resilience & Smart Farming
   – Collaboration with NiMET for climate advisory services ensures farmers are better prepared for climate-related risks, including drought and flooding.
   – Training on pest control and post-harvest management will help reduce losses and improve food quality.
5. Food Inflation Control & Economic Impact
   – With Kwara already leading in food inflation reduction, continued investment in agriculture-driven policies will stabilize food prices, benefiting both producers and consumers.
   – The initiative positions Kwara as a model state for agri-food security and economic diversification.

Call to Action for Stakeholders
For agribusiness investors, policymakers, and farmers, active participation in the fair and leveraging state-backed agricultural incentives will be key to long-term success. The program aligns with Nigeria’s broader strategy for food security, presenting an opportunity to scale agribusiness operations and drive sustainable growth in the sector.