By: Monday Danladi, Bauchi
Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has
lamented that while food remains abundant, many citizens lack the financial means to buy it, leaving farmers who invested heavily in seeds, fertilisers, and other inputs struggling to break even.
He therefore expressed deep concern over the growing contradiction between bumper harvests and worsening economic hardship faced by farmers across the State.
Bala Mohammed attributed the situation largely to federal government policies, particularly food importation measures, which he said have inadvertently devalued locally produced farm goods.
While acknowledging efforts by the federal government to cushion economic hardship through subsidy interventions, the Governor called for a careful review of the broader impact of such policies on local farmers and long-term agricultural sustainability.
The Governor was speaking after a three-day visit to Duguri, his home country in Alkaleri Local Government Area, where he spent the Christmas season holidays.
The Governor noted that although agricultural production has increased significantly, poor pricing mechanisms and weak market structures have left many farmers unable to recover their production costs.
Bala Mohammed explained that the State Government could not implement its usual produce buy-back programme this year due to existing stockpiles, leading to an oversupply of food items in the market without corresponding purchasing power.
The Governor assured residents that the Bauchi State Government is exploring measures to support affected farmers, including improved access to quality seedlings, strengthened farming cooperatives, and more resilient agricultural value chains.
He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to people-centred governance, stressing that leadership must be guided by fairness, unity, and service to all, while continuous community engagement will help align government policies with the real challenges faced by the people.
Meanwhile, the Governor expressed deep joy and fulfillment after spending time with close associates, family members, and well-wishers during his annual end-of-year vacation.
Speaking during an interview with Government House correspondents, the Governor described the visit as emotionally rewarding, noting that it provided him with a rare opportunity to reconnect personally with people who have been part of his life journey.
Bala Mohammed said that he spent five days across Duguri and Alkaleri towns, engaging informally with residents and sharing moments of reflection outside the demands of official duties.
He explained that the vacation allowed him to listen directly to the concerns, aspirations, and prayers of ordinary citizens in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
According to the Governor, such personal interactions strengthen his sense of responsibility and renew his commitment to serving the people with sincerity and compassion.
He expressed gratitude to the communities for their warm reception, support, and goodwill, describing the experience as refreshing and motivating as the year comes to an end.
Bauchi Governor, Bala Mohammed interacting with his kinsmen in Yelwan Duguri
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