Group urges Jigawa government to distribute agricultural equipment promptly.

The Open Government Partnership (OGP) in Jigawa State has called on the state government to promptly distribute the agricultural equipment and extension motorcycles that have been procured, arguing that delays are preventing the intended benefits from reaching farmers.

In a statement signed by co‑chair and non‑state actors representative Isah Mustapha, the organisation praised the Jigawa State government for its ongoing commitment to agricultural development. It highlighted increased funding, institutional reforms and strategic investments designed to enhance food security and improve farmers’ livelihoods.

The statement noted that the government has raised its budgetary allocation to agriculture from less than five per cent to between 10 and 12 per cent of the state budget, and has created an additional ministry and agency to strengthen agricultural and livestock development.

OGP also commended the large‑scale procurement of agricultural machinery and the establishment of mechanisation centres across the state’s 30 constituencies, describing the initiative as a key step toward modernising farming practices.

Despite these achievements, the organisation expressed concern that the equipment has not yet been distributed. The assets remain exposed to harsh weather, while farmers continue to face rising production costs and limited access to mechanised services.

With more than 90 per cent of Jigawa’s population relying on agriculture directly or indirectly, OGP argued that timely deployment of the equipment would boost productivity, lower operational costs and strengthen food production throughout the state.

The statement also praised the recruitment of over 900 agricultural extension workers under the J‑AGROG programme but noted that the motorcycles procured to support their field operations have reportedly stayed in storage for nearly a year.

OGP warned that continued delays could diminish the effectiveness of extension services and raise maintenance costs if the motorcycles deteriorate before they are used.

Consequently, the organisation urged the state government to expedite the distribution of both the agricultural equipment and the motorcycles, stressing that prompt action would ensure public investments translate into tangible benefits for farming communities and support Jigawa’s broader goals of economic growth and sustainable agricultural development.