The Adamawa State Government has officially commenced the disbursement of farm inputs for the 2025 wet season under the Adamawa State Agribusiness Support Programme (ADAS-P), in collaboration with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) and the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA).
The flag-off ceremony, held in Yola, marked a significant step toward improving agricultural productivity and empowering Community-Based Seed Entrepreneurs (CBSEs) across the state.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon. David Jatau Finchiwa, commended Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri’s unwavering commitment to agricultural development and rural empowerment. He urged beneficiaries not to sell the foundation seeds but to use them judiciously to boost production.
He assured farmers that full-scale input distribution for the wet season would soon commence in all parts of the state.
“Governor Fintiri is a visionary leader. The establishment of ADAS-P is a clear indication of his desire to transform agriculture and livestock production, while also empowering women with skills to become self-reliant in agribusiness,” the commissioner stated.
The Chief Operating Officer of ADAS-P, Alhaji Yunusa Ibrahim Gafai, highlighted the program’s successes, revealing that mechanisms are being established for the IsDB and IITA to directly purchase produce from farmers—addressing the longstanding challenge of market access.
In his remarks, Alhaji Munir Ahmed, Project Coordinator of the IsDB Tadamon/IITA Project, praised Adamawa’s proactive agricultural policies and Governor Fintiri’s support for agribusiness. He expressed satisfaction with the commitment shown by the people of the state toward agricultural growth and livestock development.
Also speaking, the Acting District Head of Yola North, Alhaji Muhammed Chubado, described the initiative as a timely and impactful intervention that will enhance food security and farmer livelihoods.
Chairman of the Adamawa Community-Based Seed Entrepreneurs, Alhaji Baba Sahabo, shared that over 860 individuals and 43 cooperatives were trained in high-quality seed production last year through ADASP in partnership with IITA. Certificates of competence were awarded to successful participants.
Alhaji Abubakar Usman (Manu Nguroje) confirmed the suitability of the improved seed varieties after extensive field trials demonstrated their viability in Adamawa’s climate and soil conditions.
Some of the beneficiaries, including Mohammed Usman Konkol and Hajiya Talatu Hammandikko, expressed appreciation to the state government and ADASP for the training and support. They pledged to apply the knowledge and tools received to boost agricultural productivity.
The disbursement is part of a broader strategy by the Fintiri-led administration to strengthen food systems, create jobs, and promote sustainable agricultural practices in the state.
