Northern Farmers Welcome Governors’ ₦1bn Security Fund to Safeguard Agriculture

By Benson Daniel

Farmers across Northern Nigeria have thrown their support behind the decision of the Northern States Governors’ Forum to establish a ₦1 billion monthly security fund, saying the initiative offers renewed hope for communities that have endured years of insecurity and disruption to farming activities.

The farmers said persistent attacks by bandits, kidnappers and other criminal groups have forced many rural residents to abandon their farms, leading to reduced agricultural output and worsening food shortages in several parts of the country. They expressed optimism that the security fund would strengthen efforts to restore peace and create a safer environment for farming.

According to the farmers, improved security will encourage thousands of displaced farmers to return to cultivation, increase food production and help stabilize the prices of essential food commodities. They noted that agriculture remains the backbone of the northern economy and that protecting farming communities is crucial to ensuring national food security.

Stakeholders in the agricultural sector also described the initiative as a significant step toward addressing one of the biggest challenges facing the industry. They said sustained investment in security would not only protect lives and property but also attract greater investment into agriculture and rural development.

While applauding the governors for the initiative, the farmers stressed that effective implementation would be key to achieving the desired results. They called for prudent management of the fund, stronger collaboration among security agencies and continuous engagement with local communities to tackle emerging threats.

They further urged state governments to complement the security initiative with increased investment in rural infrastructure, improved access to farm inputs, extension services and agricultural financing. According to them, combining enhanced security with broader support for farmers will accelerate the recovery of the agricultural sector, strengthen livelihoods and contribute to long-term economic growth and food security across Northern Nigeria.