The 1 Brigade Nigerian Army, Gusau, has distributed free fertilizer to 100 farmers in Zamfara State as part of its non-kinetic approach to fostering peace and stability.
Speaking during the exercise, Brigade Commander Brig.-Gen. Mustapha Jimoh, represented by the Assistant Chief of Staff, Lt.-Col. Isah Galadima, said the intervention was designed to boost agricultural productivity while strengthening civil-military relations.
Galadima noted that the initiative reflects the vision of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, who emphasizes peacebuilding alongside security operations.
He explained that the Army complements its combat role with community support activities such as food distribution, medical outreach, and education.
Farmers from villages in Tsafe Local Government Area including Gidan-Giye, Kucheri, Magazu, Bilbis, and Fegin-Baza benefited from the gesture. The Army, however, cautioned against diversion of the fertilizer, urging farmers to use it strictly for farming.
The Emir of Tsafe, Alhaji Muhammad Bawa, represented by the Senior District Head, Alhaji Abubakar Aliyu (Sarkin Gabar), commended the effort, describing it as timely in view of the fertilizer shortage this year.
Similarly, the Vice Chairman of Tsafe LGA, Hon. Sani Abdullahi, pledged that the council would monitor its usage to ensure accountability.
A beneficiary, Malam Abubakar Magaji Marafa, expressed gratitude on behalf of the farmers, noting that the high cost of fertilizer had made it difficult for them to buy.
He assured that the donation would be put to good use and prayed for the success of the Army in its operations.
