Farmers in Makurdi
have applauded the Benue State  Government for promptly supplying fertiliser to all farmers for this year’s farming season.
Some of them who spoke with the newsmen in Makurdi particularly commended Governor Gabriel Suswam for the timely launch of the distribution process and said that it would enhance better yields.
The Tide’s source  reports that the sale and distribution of the input took place at Zaki-Biam in Ukum Local Government Area.
Suswam was quoted as saying that the product would be sold to farmers at a subsidised rate of N3,300 per bag, as against its current market price of N6,000 per bag.
Mr Iordye Gbakon, one of the farmers, said that it was the first time he was receiving fertiliser.
“Over the years, we have had to apply fertiliser to our farms when it is almost too late, due to the delay in procurement and distribution of the product.
“Supplying the product this year is a complete departure from such past experiences. For many or us, this is a thing of joy,” he said.
Mr Wondoo Tyoban, another farmer, said that the state government deserved commendation for making fertiliser available to farmers on time in the 2014 farming season.
’’This is really a major boost; it will spur us to work harder. Farmers should have no complaints this year.
“We have to praise government when it does things that are worth commending. We should not wait for mistakes before we start chastising our leaders,’’ he said.
Another farmer, Mrs. Mwarga Shausu, said that the early launch of fertiliser sales would inspire farmers to engage in large scale production of food for human consumption and for industrial use as well.
‘’This step will enhance wealth creation among farmers. We expect them to do more to generate higher incomes and ensure food security,’’ she said.
Mr Jinge Atsugh, another farmer, urged government to sustain the tempo to ensure stability in food production.
Meanwhile, a large scale yam farmer, Mr Terzungwe Akaajime, appealed to the government to check the activities of middlemen in the fertiliser distribution chain, to avoid exploitation and sharp practises.
‘’This step is necessary to eliminate all hitches encountered by farmers in their bid to get the commodity,’’ he said.