NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Agriculture , Food Security

Water, Power ministries sign MOU on $500m irrigation, hydropower project

333 total views today

By Tosin Kolade

The Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, and the Ministry of Power, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the implementation of the Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria (SPIN) project.

The 500 million dollars World Bank SPIN project aims to enhance dam safety and improve water resource management for hydropower and irrigation across 25 states.

At the signing ceremony in Abuja on Tuesday, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, said that the joint effort reflects the synergy required to implement transformational projects.

Utsev stated that the ministry’s mandate includes boosting food production, creating jobs for women and youth, and strengthening Nigeria’s economy.

“Today’s occasion marks another step towards achieving these goals and repositioning the country,” he stated.

He said that the initiative, approved by President BolaTinubu, reflected the administration’s commitment to inter-ministerial collaboration for delivering democratic dividends to Nigerians.

Utsev also acknowledged the ongoing support of the World Bank, describing it as a trusted partner in Nigeria’s development journey.

He cited initiatives like the Transforming Irrigation Management in Nigeria (TRIMING) project, concluding in January 2025, as foundations for innovative solutions in water and agriculture.

“We are confident that the SPIN project will build on this legacy by boosting food production and meeting the irrigation needs of our growing population,” he added.

As Chairman of the SPIN Preparatory Team, Utsev assured stakeholders of the ministries’ and partners’ full commitment to the successful implementation of the project.

“Our collective efforts have brought us to this significant moment, and I am confident that SPIN will deliver the tangible benefits Nigerians are eagerly anticipating,” he said.

Earlier, the Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu, noted the importance of the partnership in achieving sustainable hydropower development and enhancing energy security across Nigeria.

He noted that while Nigeria is rich in water resources across its river basins, only about 2 per cent of the country’s estimated 14 gigawatts of hydropower potential has been harnessed.

“The signing of this MOU is a key step in ensuring Nigeria’s energy future is powered by clean, renewable sources, in line with the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan.

“We aim to optimise our natural resources, diversify our energy mix, and tackle climate change,” Adelabu said.

He emphasised that fully exploiting this potential could transform Nigeria’s energy landscape and providing sustainable power for millions.

He said under Tinubu’s leadership, the administration has committed to addressing energy challenges by prioritising energy’s vital role in economic growth and job creation.

“As part of the Renewed Hope Agenda, the government has introduced several legislative and policy measures, including the Electricity Act 2023, which decentralises the electricity market and allows subnational governments to participate.”

Adelabu also stressed the role of distributed energy systems in enhancing reliability.

“Decentralised power generation enables local governments and private investors to develop embedded energy systems, reducing risks to national grid infrastructure.

“This, alongside our renewable energy potential, especially in solar and hydropower, forms the foundation of our sustainable energy strategy.”

He pointed out that Nigeria’s northern states, with 8 to 12 hours of sunshine daily, offer opportunities for solar power, while hydropower remains key to the energy mix.

Adelabu reaffirmed that harnessing hydropower potential and fostering partnerships would ensure a reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy future for Nigeria.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 25 states have shown interest in SPIN project; Benue, Katsina, Akwa Ibom, Niger, Gombe, Sokoto, Enugu, Bauchi, Cross River, and Nasarawa.

Others are Ekiti, Kebbi, Plateau, Ebonyi, Zamfara, Abia, Kwara, Imo, Taraba, Kano, Delta, Osun, Jigawa, Edo, and Kogi. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Agriculture

Data crucial for agric. mechanisation- Stakeholders

298 total views today

 

By Angela Atabo

Stakeholders in Nigeria’s agricultural sector have emphasised the importance of accurate data in realising the full potential of agricultural mechanisation.

 

This was the central theme of a workshop on Mechanisation in Nigeria, organised by the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) and Heifer International Nigeria in Abuja on Monday.

 

Dr Tobi Lekan, Country Director of Heifer International Nigeria, noted that data plays a critical role in optimising tractor utilisation and maintenance.

 

“By embracing a data-driven approach, we can maximise the impact of each tractor and ensure the success of Nigeria’s mechanisation journey,” he said.

 

Lekan said that the workshop aimed to discuss strategies for supporting the ownership, deployment, adoption, and use of tractors to make them sustainable.

 

He emphasised that increasing the penetration rate of tractors in Nigeria was crucial, as the country currently had one of the lowest rates in Africa.

 

Mr Mohamed Ibrahim, Executive Secretary of NADF, highlighted the government’s commitment to engaging youths as drivers of agricultural transformation.

 

“The first phase of the initiative aims to assemble and deploy 2,000 John Deere tractors, creating 2,000 models of mechanisation success stories.”

 

Mr Cornelius Adebayo, Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA), stated that the government was making significant efforts to promote mechanisation through its agencies.

 

According to Adebayo, the government is working on clusterisation to fast-track mechanisation.

 

“We cannot achieve our mechanisation goals without clusterisation, so we have designed national programmes to ensure their success.

 

“These programmes include the Renewed Hope mega farm settlement, which provides thousands of farmers with access to social amenities and enables them to produce and earn a living.

 

“Additionally, the government plans to resettle displaced persons and cluster them in areas where they can farm and earn a living.”

 

Dr Nneka Enwonwu, Hello Tractor’s Country Managing Director, emphasised the crucial role of innovative financing in effective mechanisation.

 

“Our organisation tackles financial and operational hurdles that limit access to mechanisation.

 

“We connect smallholder farmers to mechanized service providers, optimising tractor utilisation and maintenance through data-driven solutions like Pay-As-You-Go models and technology-enabled tracking,”she said.

 

Enwonwu stressed that achieving food security requires mechanising smallholder farmers.

 

“We must provide them with access to mechanised services, tractors, implements, and harvesters to boost productivity and yields.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Agriculture

L-PRES moves to strengthen animal genetic resources

399 total views today

By Tosin Kolade

Nigeria, through the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), is advancing efforts to harness animal genetic resources for sustainable agriculture, food security, and economic development.

The initiative aims to promote the conservation, sustainable use, and development of indigenous genetic resources to enhance livestock productivity and resilience.

Mr Sanusi Abubakar, National Project Coordinator of L-PRES, said this at the stakeholder meeting on the Development of the National Strategy and Action Plan on Animal Genetic Resources (AnGR) on Monday.

He noted the importance of the plan, which aligned with the Global Plan of Action on Animal Genetic Resources developed by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO).

“The global framework, adopted by FAO member countries, promotes the sustainable and rational management of AnGR to improve productivity and foster international collaboration.

“The effective management, conservation, and utilisation of our nation’s animal genetic resources are crucial to enhancing productivity and resilience in Nigeria’s livestock sector”.

Abubakar announced that L-PRES has begun groundwork for establishing a national gene bank to preserve the genetic material of indigenous animal breeds.

This initiative, he said, was expected to enhance biodiversity and safeguard valuable traits in local livestock.

He also noted that Nigeria’s commitment to AnGR management was reinforced through its active participation in the recent Global National Coordinators Workshop in Rome.

He stated that the validated document would guide the sustainable management of Nigeria’s animal genetic resources, reduce reliance on imports, and boost the livestock sector’s economic impact.

Earlier, Dr Popoola Mustafa, Project Team Lead, emphasised Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening and securing its animal genetic resources, with the aim of ensuring sustainable livestock production and resilience.

“This initiative aligns with the Global Plan of Action on Animal Genetic Resources (AnGR), which Nigeria signed in 2007 but has not fully implemented.

“The objective is to address the underperformance of the livestock sector, which has the potential to contribute N33 trillion to the economy”.

Popoola identified poor animal identification, genetic diversion from mixing local and foreign breeds, and the uncoordinated management of free-roaming animals as key limitations to the sector.

He proposed solutions such as proper characterisation and cataloguing of local genetic resources, creating breeding programmes for specific outputs like meat or milk, and focusing on the sustainable use and conservation of genetic resources.

Popoola also recommended targeted government interventions and institutional support, including guidelines for the newly established Ministry of Livestock Development and support from the World Bank.

“The strategy not only focuses on cattle but aims to optimise genetic resources across various species, positioning Nigeria as a leader in animal genetics.

“This initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision for a thriving livestock economy.”

Dr Anthony Okere, Director of the National Centre for Genetic Resources and Biotechnology (NACGRAB), stated that the organisation oversees both animal and plant genetic resources.

He highlighted NACGRAB’s role in cataloguing local breeds and developing ‘Made in Nigeria’ poultry breeds.

“NACGRAB serves as the Secretariat for the National Variety Release Committee, overseeing the registration, release, and cataloguing of new animal breeds.

“We also maintain Nigeria’s national crop catalogue and are expanding our catalogue of animal breeds,” Okere explained.

He expressed optimism that the meeting would generate innovative ideas and actionable recommendations to guide the Ministry’s work, ensuring the sustainable utilisation of animal genetic resources.

Okere also emphasised the broader national goal of strengthening Nigeria’s livestock sector, reducing reliance on foreign genetic material, and enhancing the country’s capacity for genetic research and innovation. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Agriculture

Minister advocates water management for food security

338 total views today

By Akpan Glory

The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, has urged collaborative efforts to harness water resources for food security and poverty alleviation in Nigeria.

Utsev made the call at the Stakeholders’ Sensitisation Workshop on the National Action Plan for the newly developed flagship programmes on Thursday in Abuja.

They are; River Basin Strategy for Poverty Alleviation (RB-SPA), the Water for Expanded Irrigated Agriculture Programme (WEIRPRO), and the Partnership for Expanded Irrigation Programme (PEIRPRO).

He emphasised the importance of tackling the challenges facing the nation through food security.

“Harnessing Nigeria’s abundant water resources can boost food security, create jobs, and reduce poverty.

“President Tinubu’s 8-Point Agenda highlights food security and poverty eradication. We must translate these priorities into impactful actions.

“These programmes signify a paradigm shift in managing water resources and agriculture, unlocking our river basins’ potential for sustainable livelihoods and economic growth,” he explained.

He noted that the initiatives were conceived through the ministry’s Department of River Basin Operations and Inspectorate to transform Nigeria’s irrigated agricultural landscape, stimulate economic growth, and create jobs.

“The RB-SPA prioritises interventions to enhance agricultural productivity, promote inclusive economic growth, and alleviate poverty in river basin areas.

“WEIRPRO and PEIRPRO focus on expanding irrigated agriculture, harnessing water resources to boost yields and livelihoods while driving economic prosperity,” Utsev said.

He stated that presentations at the workshop would address challenges and opportunities in water resources management, including “Harnessing Water Resources for Food Security” and “Expanding Irrigation in Nigeria”.

These, he added aim to provide a comprehensive foundation for understanding water’s role in food security and sustainable development.

In his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Mr Richard Pheelangwah, highlighted the global importance of enhancing water resources to support farmers and promote sustainable development.

He expressed optimism that the presentations would address key challenges and opportunities in water resources management.

“The workshop is expected to provide global best practices to meet farmers’ needs and foster sustainable development.

“Considering the calibre of participants here, I have no doubt justice will be done in the presentations and deliberations”.

An expert in the water sector and lead paper presenter, Mr John Ochigbo, called for innovative technologies in the sector to maintain the ecosystem and achieve food security in Nigeria.

He emphasised the need for infrastructure, conservation, and public-private collaboration in water management.

Ochigbo stated that food security requires affordability, accessibility, and nutrition, not just availability.

Mrs Christy Oduh, Director of River Basin Operations and Inspectorate, emphasised that collaboration and dedication are crucial for advancing water resources development and achieving sustainable goals in the sector.

The workshop included presentations by water resources experts, such as Benson Ajisegiri and Elijah Aderibigbe, focusing on irrigation expansion, water resource management, and the revitalisation of the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene sector.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that participants at the meeting included Managing Directors of River Basin Development Authorities, government agencies, CSOs, and private sector representatives.

The meeting is expected to strengthen partnerships, develop a concrete action plan to implement the flagship programmes and harness water resources for food security and poverty alleviation in Nigeria. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Tosin Kolade

Agriculture

Water ministry, SON partner to improve irrigation water quality

362 total views today

By Tosin Kolade

The Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation has partnered with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) to enhance the quality of irrigation water in the country.

This was the focus of the Technical Committee on Water Quality meeting for the development of the Nigerian Standard for Irrigation Water Quality in Abuja.

The collaboration aims to develop and implement robust irrigation water quality standards that align with global best practices.

Mrs Oyeronke Oluniyi, Director of Irrigation and Drainage at the ministry, described the initiative as crucial for enhancing agricultural productivity, ensuring food security, and advancing Nigeria’s socio-economic development.

She added that the partnership aimed to improve water quality, support farmers, and safeguard ecosystems.

“The ministry has been working to raise awareness about water quality by discouraging practices such as washing clothes in irrigation systems and open defecation.

“This is crucial because many food products are consumed raw and unprocessed, making it essential to ensure the availability of quality water for agricultural purposes”.

The director further stated that the ministry would transfer the project to SON while maintaining a supervisory role.

Earlier, Mrs Elizabeth Ugoh, Director of Water Quality Control and Sanitation at the ministry, emphasised that validating irrigation standards would help tackle key development challenges in Nigeria.

She said the ministry was committed to validating irrigation standards to boost food security, nutrition, productivity, and socio-economic development.

“Since 2022, the committee has been critically reviewing the documents, aiming to develop irrigation water quality standards tailored to Nigeria’s needs for effective agricultural practices”.

Ugoh also stressed the need to address poor monitoring and evaluation and to conduct regular reviews for sustainable progress.

Dr Ifeanyi Okeke, SON Director General, announced the release of two key documents to enhance national standardisation.

He was represented by the Deputy Director, Food and Agriculture Group, Mrs Nene Obianwu.

“These are the Principles and Procedures for the Development of the Nigerian National Standards (PPDNNS) and the Nigerian National Standardisation Strategy (NNSS).

“These documents provide guidelines aligned with international best practices, with the NNSS outlining a four-year plan to address Nigeria’s environmental and socio-economic priorities,” Okeke said.

He stressed that forming a National Technical Committee was essential for implementing these standards and urged effective discussions to finalise the draft.

“Water is vital for agriculture, directly impacting crop yield, soil health, and food security.

“With challenges like climate change and population growth, improving water management, especially in irrigation, is essential,” he added.

He further emphasised that developing a Nigerian Standard for Irrigation Water Quality was key to protect crops from harmful contaminants, which threatened public health and economic growth.

Okeke noted that these efforts supported Nigeria’s commitment to the UN’s SDGs and encouraged participants to contribute their expertise in developing a framework for sustainable irrigation water safety.

He also acknowledged the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation’s support in advancing the project.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Nigerian Standard for Irrigation Water Quality outlines the quality requirements, classification, and test methods for irrigation water in Nigeria.

The Standard applies to any water used for irrigation purposes, regardless of its source. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Agriculture

Expert calls for youth, women empowerment in agriculture

327 total views today

By Naomi Sharang

The Chief Executive Officer of Shield Africa, Mrs Osenaga Orokpo, has emphasised the need for empowering youth and women to drive sustainable agricultural development in Nigeria and Africa.

Orokpo, speaking at the Shield Africa Summit 2024 in Abuja on Friday, noted that food insecurity and poverty have become major concerns on the continent.

She stressed that Africa must prioritise sustainable agriculture and food security, transforming fields and approaches to prioritise sustainable practices, empower youth and women, and unlock the true potential of African agriculture.

Orokpo envisioned a prosperous Africa where every young person had the tools to become an agri-preneur, transforming farmlands into sources of wealth and opportunity.

According to Orokpo, hunger affects over 250 million people in sub-Saharan Africa, with population growth threatening to outpace agricultural production.

She emphasised the need for more youth involvement in agriculture, citing the average age of farmers as over 60, while the median age of the population is just 18.

Orokpo called on stakeholders to join forces to shield Africa from hunger, poverty, and pain.

She announced that Shield Africa aimed to create 15,000 to 20,000 direct and indirect jobs for young individuals in 2025, contributing to youth employment and reducing poverty.

The Deputy Governor of Benue, Dr Sam Ode, represented by Director-General Benita Shuluwa, emphasised the potential for rural communities to drive economic transformation.

He highlighted Benue’s experiences in investing in rural infrastructure, which he said have boosted agriculture and uplifted communities.

Ode commended Shield Africa for providing agricultural support, empowering youth, and promoting gender inclusivity.(NAN)

Edited by Yinusa Ishola and Abiemwense Moru

Agriculture

Lagos empowers 26 agriprenuers with N100m grant

386 total views today

 

By Mercy Omoike/ Oluwatope Lawanson

The Lagos State Government has empowered 26 agriprenuers with a N100 million grant to boost food production and security in the state.

This was disclosed at the state’s Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems’ Agrinnovation Summit 1.0, on Thursday, in Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the summit with the theme: “Shaping Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems for the Next Generation”, represents the state government’s commitment to build an agricultural sector that serves as the backbone of the economy.

The 26 recipients were selected through a rigorous process from the Agrinnovation Club which later grew into the Lagos Agrithon.

In his address, Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the state’s  Head of Service, Mr Tayo Ayinde, urged the recipients to utilise the grants to ensure sustainable agribusinesses and food security.

“We gather here today with one purpose: to build sustainable agriculture and food systems for the next generation, and to ensure that Lagos not only sustains itself but leads Nigeria and Africa toward food security and agricultural excellence.

“As a government, we understand that agriculture development depends on more than just traditional practices. It requires us to embrace technology, foster collaboration, and create sustainable practices that will endure.

“I want to commend in particular, the creation of the Lagos Agrinnovation Club. This club is not just an initiation, it has become a community of young agripreneurs, a hub of creativity, and a platform for those who dare to reimagine agriculture.

“Out of the Agrinnovation Club grew the Lagos Agrithon, a testament to the power of innovation and opportunity.

“This years Agrithon saw 316 business case entries from dynamic startups, championed by young people who are driven by their vision to transform agriculture, and building sustainable solutions.

“The 26 finalists we honour today have not only made it through a rigorous selection process but have also shown us that the future of food in Lagos is bright.

“With access to mentorship, networks, and a share of the N100 million Agrinnovation fund, these entrepreneurs will have the resources to take their enterprise solutions further,” Sanwo-olu said.

He also reiterated that the recipients would be monitored to ensure justifiable use of the grants.

“With the collaboration between the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, LSETF and Eko Innovation Centre, will monitor and evaluate the activity of the 26 entrepreneurs for the next nine months to see how these businesses are growing.

“To our Agrithon finalists, I urge you to put this funding to excellent use, as you’ve demonstrated through your impressive and innovative ideas,” he said.

On her part, Ms Abisola Olusanya, the state’s Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, called for the onboarding of more young people as major players in the agric  sector.

“We would like to appreciate everyone for being here and especially our jurors, they did a fantastic job helping us with the selection process, from 316 business entries and bringing it down to 26 finalists.

“We are here to celebrate these young agriculture entrepreneurs, who have not waited for the government to give them opportunities but have looked within themselves and other for inspiration.

“They have made of themselves and of their enterprises something to be proud of and we are proud to be in association with them.

“They have shown that agriculture is a pathway to us being prosperous as a nation.

“These agriprenuers have shown that passion, connectivity, and we are gathered to celebrate them, showing other people who want to come into the agric space.

“We want newcomers to know that there is a lot to gain in the agric. space, and particularly in the direction that the government of Governor Babajide Sanwo-olu is going, there is enough to unearth in the coming months.

“It is up to the newcomers to come in and plug into what is happening in the sector,” Olusanya said.

In his closing remarks , the Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture, Dr Oluwarotimi Fashola, urged the Agrithon finalists to make good use of the opportunities in the sector.

“To all the young innovators and Agrithon finalists, let me say this: you are the heartbeat of Lagos’ agricultural future. Your ideas, your ambition, and your resilience inspire us all.

“Today, you have shown us what is possible when we bring technology, sustainability, and entrepreneurial spirit into agriculture.

“You are proof that Lagos is more than capable of leading Nigeria and Africa toward a food-secure and sustainable future.

“As we leave here today, let us carry forward the knowledge, connections, and inspiration we have gained.

“Let us build on the momentum created here and work together to turn these innovative ideas into practical, sustainable solutions for our communities,” Fashola said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Agriculture

FG, partners unveil 20m capacity fish hatchery in Cross River

427 total views today

By Christian Njoku

The Federal Government in collaboration with development partners has established a model fish hatchery in Calabar, Cross River, to accelerate pisciculture and food security in the country.

The hatchery is designed with an annual 20 million fingerlings production capacity, a fully functional laboratory, classrooms and a research centre.

The facility was jointly funded by the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Cross River Government, and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).

Others include the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises Project for the Niger Delta (LIFE ND), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and the Feed the Future Project, among other private sector collaborators.

Sen. Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, who inaugurated the facility on Thursday, said that apart from adding to food security, it would also serve as a hub for employment and income generation for youths and women in the aquaculture subsector.

“The South-South region holds a significant position as Nigeria’s oil and fishery hubs, motivating the provision of this facility to build the capacity of fish farmers and enhance productivity through research activities.

“The Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu is committed to advancing the nation’s agri-food system through technology and innovation for job creation, youth empowerment, and poverty reduction,” he said.

Gov. Bassey Otu of Cross River, said that the model fish hatchery project was conceptualised to address the challenges of unavailability and inaccessibility of juveniles, which were identified as impediments to fish farming.

Represented by Mr Johnson Ebokpo, Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Otu said the production of fish feeds at low cost would bring down cost of production.

According to him, it will also enhance sales and bring additional profit to fish farmers.

He appreciated Kyari for providing conducive environment for all the interventions the state had received from foreign organisations.

Mr Abiodun Sanni, National Project Coordinator, LIFE ND, described the project as a testament to effective collaboration, adding that it would encourage youths to embrace agriculture in the Niger Delta.

Sanni noted that while the project was expected to create jobs, wealth and enhace food security in the Niger Delta and Nigeria, it would also revolutionise aquaculture in the state.

Also, Dr Ben Odoemena, Chief of Party, USAID Feed the Future Agricultural Extension and Advisory Services, said 20 million juveniles stood for about N1.6 billion that would be injected into the economy of Cross River annually.

Odoemena said if properly maintained, conservatively, the hatchery would inject about N60 billion into the state  economy annually. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Benson Ezugwu and Peter Amine

Agriculture

FG, IFAD-SAPZ to boost Nigeria’s agro-industrial dev’t

442 total views today

By FeliciA Imohimi

The Federal Government and International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)-Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) programme have pledged to make all states across the country agro-industrial hubs by 2026.

Dr Dede Ekoue, Country Director, IFAD, made the pledge at the 1st joint Federal Government/IFAD Supervision Mission Wrap-Up of SAPZ on Friday in Abuja.

Ekoue said the gesture would be achieved through the implementation of the project in all states of the federation.

She said that the accelerated pilot intervention in Kano had proven to be highly effective model, laying strong foundation for the project’s future success and ensuring tangible benefits were reaching the targeted rural smallholder farmers.

The country director said the project had so far reached 1000 beneficiaries in Kano out of the 7,398 profiled farmers between September 2024 and September 2025 in the state.

She described the progress achieved so far at the early phase as a strong indicator of its potential to achieve its goal in upcoming years.

“We have already reached over 1000 beneficiaries under the pilot project, which demonstrates our commitment to the targeting strategy and our goal of inclusivity.

“The project is on the right path to meeting the SAPZ’s gender and youth representative targets, with 44.5 per cent of the beneficiaries being female and 28.8 per cent youth.

“As we progresses, we are on track to meet the 50 per cent female and 40 per cent youth representation targets in the targeted areas of Kano and Ogun States.’’

Ekoue identified the target of reaching 24,000 beneficiaries across Ogun and Kano by 2025 as ambitious and achievable.

She called for concerted efforts of all stakeholders to accelerate the pace of implementation and prioritise scaling up successful intervention.

“We must continue to strengthen our partnerships; leverage new technologies and adapt quickly to the changing agricultural landscape,” she said.

Ekoue identified other achievements of the project as capacity building for farmer-based organisations, establishment of demonstration plots, partnerships with local institutions, strong collaboration with state and local government and private sector engagement.

She said the project has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Commodity Alliance Federation.

According to her, the gesture is as an important step towards enhancing the livelihoods of farmers by opening new pathways to market opportunities.

Dr Kabir Yusuf, National Programme Coordinator, SAPZ, said the project’s overall development objective was to support the development of SAPZ in high food production areas to supply the domestic food market and create exportable surpluses.

According to him, it is also to capacitate smallholder farmers, small agro-processors and traders and community-based service providers including women and youth.

Yusuf said the programme was being piloted in Kano and subsequently, Ogun.

He said it would be implemented across the 36 states of the federation through the bye-in of the government.

“If the SAPZ project is implemented across all the state it will directly or indirectly create at least 500,000 jobs in each states outside the jobs that will spring up along the value chain.

“l am optimistic that as we have reach our pilot target group, we will rich our target in 2025 and the issue of food security will be history

“We will at that point develop infrastructure for our processing industry and by the end of 2026 we will have full fledge SAPZ and agro-Industrial development across the country,’’ he said.

Mr Musa Bukar, Director, Project Coordinating Unit, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMFS), said the supervision mission was to access the level of implementation of the project in Kano and identify key bottleneck.

“The mission is also to make recommendation on way forward to accelerate progress.

“SAPZ has successfully foster collaboration with key stakeholders including the Kano State ministry of agriculture, agro-pastoral development programme, among others.

“These efforts help assure that the project aligned with local needs and provides a strong foundation for the project’s successes and quality improvement,’’ he said.

Tabi Karikari, Chief Agro-Industrial Officer, African Development Bank (AfDB), who identified SAPZ as a game changer, said it was accelerated for its capacity to change any rural communities from zones of misery to becoming zones of prosperity. (NAN)( www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo

Agriculture

Niger to host end-of-year nutritious food fair

375 total views today

 

 

By Rita Iliya
The Niger state government says it will host the 10th edition of the Nutritious Food Fair to promote sustainable food systems and nutrition in the state.

Alhaji Musa Bawa-Bosso, state Commissioner for Agriculture, disclosed this during a press conference in Minna.

He said that the event would be in partnership with HarvestPlus and Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN).

He said the two-day event would hold on Dec. 10 to Dec. 11, with the theme, “Sustainable Food Systems: Our Collective Responsibility”.

Bawa-Bosso noted that the fair was part of the state’s efforts to foster a vibrant agricultural sector, and provide supportive environment for investments in nutritious foods.

“This milestone edition will bring together policymakers, researchers, farmers, SME’s and food processors to showcase innovations.

“(They will also) exchange knowledge, and address the latest developments in nutritious foods,” he said.

He disclosed that over 100 exhibitors, government officials, private sector leaders, and over 5,000 attendees were expected.

The commissioner said the fair would serve as a platform for collective engagement, job creation, and business connections in the nutritious food sector.

Also, Dr Yusuf Fuad, Country Director of HarvestPlus, said the fair would address nutrition challenges by bringing together critical stakeholders within the food and agricultural value chains.

He said that the stakeholders would engage and advocate for improve nutrition sector investment across all levels.

He said that the event would add value to the state’s economy and support small businesses and strengthen the value chain.

“Women will receive special attention, with a focus on improving healthy diets.

“A job creation clinic will also be set up, targeting young unemployed individuals to take advantage of suitable job opportunities and become self-reliant,” he said.

Similarly, Dr Matthew Ahmed, Permanent Secretary, Niger Ministry of Agriculture, said the event would feature cooking competition across the three geopolitical zones.

He added that the event would have significant impact on the state’s economy and youth employment, with over 6,000 jobs expected to be created for young people.

Also, Mr Lachang Faden, Project Manager Biofortification, GAIN, said that the 2024 national demographic report said that 40 per cent of Nigerian children are stunted.

He added that the event would be used to create awareness on consumption of nutrient foods. (NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

X
Welcome to NAN
Need help? Choose an option below and let me be your assistant.
Email SubscriptionSite SearchSend Us Email