Jigawa State has achieved a significant milestone in Nigeria’s agricultural sector, recording a bumper wheat harvest after cultivating over 105,000 hectares of wheat. This success is a result of collaboration between the federal and state governments, which have provided essential subsidies to farmers, empowering them to scale up production.
Senator Abubakar Kyari, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, alongside Governor Umar Namadi, visited the thriving farms on Tuesday. Kyari expressed his satisfaction with the flourishing wheat farms, highlighting that investments in agriculture offer unmatched returns. He further emphasized that the cultivation of 105,000 hectares of wheat could contribute an impressive ₦350 billion to Nigeria’s economy.
This achievement is crucial in narrowing the gap between Nigeria’s wheat production and its growing demand. With a population exceeding 200 million, Nigeria relies heavily on wheat-based products such as bread, noodles, pasta, and semovita. However, local wheat production currently accounts for less than 10% of the national demand, hindered by challenges like inadequate high-quality seeds and limited training for farmers.
To overcome these challenges, the Flour Milling Association of Nigeria (FMAN) has launched a nationwide initiative focused on expanding domestic wheat production, enhancing food security, and empowering local farmers. FMAN has also partnered with the Lake Chad Research Institute to release four new wheat varieties designed to boost productivity and meet industry quality standards.
In line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s renewed Hope Agenda, there is a strong push for women and youth to engage in agriculture, tapping into its potential for economic growth.
As Jigawa State celebrates its wheat farming success, the Minister’s words about the value of agricultural investment appear more prophetic than ever. With sustained support and further investments, Nigeria’s agricultural sector is set to become a key pillar of its economic growth and development.
