Oluremi Tinubu Flags Off 2026 Planting Season in Niger

….Distributes Tractors, Fertilisers to Farmers

Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, on Saturday flagged off the 2026 planting season in Niger State, alongside the distribution of farming tools and implements to boost agricultural productivity.

Speaking at the event, the First Lady described the exercise as a clear demonstration of Nigeria’s commitment to agricultural transformation, food security, and rural development. She said the initiative signals a shift from subsistence farming to modern, mechanised, and commercially viable agriculture.

According to her, the programme aligns with the food security agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who declared a state of emergency on food security in July 2023. She noted that ongoing support, including the provision of fertilisers and other inputs, is aimed at improving food availability and affordability nationwide.

Mrs. Tinubu also paid tribute to Nigerian farmers, describing them as the backbone of the nation, whose efforts sustain millions of households.

Earlier, Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago reiterated his administration’s commitment to agriculture, describing the sector as a key pillar of the Renewed Hope Agenda. He commended the Federal Government’s economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy, which he said has increased resources available to states for development, including agriculture.

The Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Abdullahi Sabi, also lauded the initiative, expressing confidence that the provision of modern farming equipment would significantly enhance productivity.

In his remarks, APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda highlighted the importance of infrastructure, noting that projects such as the Sokoto-Badagry Highway would support agricultural production and ease the transportation of farm produce.

As part of the intervention, the First Lady handed over 250 tractors, including 75-horsepower and combined units, as well as 150,000 bags of fertiliser and other inputs for distribution across the 25 local government areas of the state.

The initiative is expected to strengthen farming capacity, improve yields, and contribute to Nigeria’s drive towards food self-sufficiency.