Why Rice Farmers Fear Production Decline In Kano

“Rice farmers in Kano State express concern over declining production due to critical input costs and the delay in implementing the National Agricultural Growth Scheme and Agro-pocket (NAGs-AP) subsidy program by the federal government. Despite promises of support, farmers are yet to receive assistance, leading to decreased productivity and frustration among stakeholders. The program, aimed at providing subsidies for farm inputs, remains stalled, impacting dry-season rice production and livelihoods. Source: Daily Trust

Our Review
Rice farmers in Kano State express concerns over declining production due to critical input costs and delays in implementing the National Agricultural Growth Scheme and Agro-pocket (NAGs-AP) by the federal government. The suspension of the Anchored Borrowers’ Programme and other issues further exacerbate the challenges faced by farmers, impacting productivity negatively.
The delay in disbursing inputs under NAGs-AP undermines farmers’ efforts, hindering dry-season rice production. Despite the program’s promising objectives of providing subsidies for farm inputs, farmers’ expectations remain unmet, leading to disillusionment and frustration among stakeholders.
Efficient implementation of NAGs-AP, supported by the African Development Bank and the Nigerian government, is crucial for enhancing agricultural productivity and livelihoods. The use of an ICT-based delivery platform can improve transparency and accountability in input distribution, ensuring the scheme’s sustainability and effectiveness.