By Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu
Yobe State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Hon. Ali Mustapha Goniri, has commended Governor Mai Mala Buni, CON, for approving the 2026 Mega Agricultural Empowerment Programme, describing it as another bold and strategic intervention that will consolidate Yobe State’s position as one of Nigeria’s leading agricultural hubs.
Goniri made the commendation following the approval of ₦28.531 billion by the Yobe State Executive Council for the procurement of agricultural tools, equipment and implements to support farmers and boost food production across the state.
According to the Commissioner, the approval demonstrates Governor Buni’s unwavering commitment to food security, agricultural modernization and the economic empowerment of farmers.
He noted that the initiative builds on the outstanding successes of the 2024 and 2025 Mega Agricultural Empowerment Programmes, which provided thousands of farmers across the 17 Local Government areas with improved inputs and modern farming equipment, leading to increased cultivation, higher yields and enhanced food production.
“The approval of this massive agricultural intervention is a clear demonstration of Governor Mai Mala Buni’s visionary leadership and his determination to make agriculture the backbone of Yobe State’s economy,” Goniri said.
He explained that the programme would ensure the timely distribution of modern agricultural implements to farmers ahead of the farming season, thereby improving productivity, increasing household incomes and contributing significantly to national food security.
The Commissioner further stated that the agricultural empowerment programme would create more opportunities for youth and women in agribusiness, strengthen value chains and stimulate rural economic growth across the state.
Goniri also praised the Governor for complementing the agricultural initiative with the approval of other strategic projects, including the construction of the Buni-Yadi Modern Motor Park and Grains Market, and the acquisition of Fanzar Mixed Farms Limited, describing them as critical investments that would enhance agricultural marketing, storage, processing and agribusiness development.
He said the Governor’s sustained investments in agriculture have transformed the sector into one of the major drivers of economic growth in Yobe State and have reinforced the administration’s commitment to improving the livelihoods of farmers.
The Commissioner assured that the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources would ensure transparent and efficient implementation of the programme to guarantee that the intended beneficiaries receive the agricultural equipment and support in good time.
He urged farmers across the state to take full advantage of the programme by embracing modern farming practices, assuring them that the Governor remains committed to supporting agriculture as a sustainable pathway to prosperity, employment generation and economic diversification.
