Agriculture - NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA

Philip Daniel Yatai
May, Sat, 2025

FCT rural road interventions ‘ll boost food security – Wike

52 total views today

By Philip Yatai

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, said the ongoing road construction in rural communities of the nation’s capital will boost food security.

Wike said this in Abuja on Saturday, after he inspected ongoing projects in the territory in preparation for inauguration to celebrate President Bola Tinubu second anniversary.

Some of the projects included the completed Market and Palace Road in Gwagwalada, completed 15-kilometre A2 to Pai and the ongoing 15.4-km Pai to Gumani in Kwali Area Council.

The minister also inspected the ongoing dualisation of Ushafa to Military Checkpoint and War College Roads in Bwari Area Council.

Wike, who marvelled at the vast arable land between Pai to Gumani, said that access roads in rural communities would significantly boost agricultural production and impact food security in the long run.

“When we inaugurated the road project, where we stopped was from A2 to Pai, which has been completed, and then Pai to Gumani which is ongoing.

“But we never saw the expanse of the road because there was no road to drive on. Thank God we were able to go there today, and you can see the vast land.

“We should not be talking about food insecurity in Nigeria – look at the land; look at the water that could be used for irrigation.

“It’s just leadership and I belief with the leadership we have today under Tinubu, you will see what is going to happen in those areas,” he said.

He added that not much was being done in rural areas in terms of agriculture because there was no access road and the lands were not being put to good agricultural use.

He expresses confidence that with the ongoing roads construction in rural communities, more lands would be utilised for mechanise agriculture.

“This will boost agricultural production and significantly impact food security.

“Without roads people that want to invest in mechanised agriculture will not be encouraged,” he said.

Describing roads as the “centrepiece and the cornerstone” of every development anywhere in the world, the minister pointed out that roads attract other development projects.

He said that with roads other things would follow, “you can go and build schools; you can go and build health facilities, but when roads are not there you can do little or nothing”.

To further improve road connectivity in rural areas, the minister revealed that he had directed the Director of Satellite Towns Development Department to extend the Pai to Gumani road project by another 13-killomtre.

He said that the road would be extended to connect Gumani and Yangoje, also in Kwali Area Council.

“The road when completed will be more than 43 kilometres from A2 (Abuja – Lokoja Expressway) to Yangoje.

“We are happy with what we have done and you can see the people are happy.

“This is what development is all about and this is what it means to provide dividends of democracy to the people,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

FG to explore biotech innovations to transform agric sector

Ismail Abdulaziz
May, Tue, 2025

Science & Tech

FG to explore biotech innovations to transform agric sector

169 total views today

By Sylvester Thompson

The Federal Government said on Monday in Abuja that it would take steps to build public trust in biotech innovations to grow the nation’s agriculture sector.

Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, the Director-General, National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA), said this at a public forum it hosted in collaboration with African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF).

The forum had as its theme: “Advancing Agricultural Biotechnology for Food Security and Economic Growth in Nigeria.’’

Mustapha was represented at the event by Dr Rose Gidado, Director, Agricultural Biotechnology Department, NBRDA.

He said the Federal Government was conscious of the transformative potential of agricultural biotechnology in Nigeria.

“Biotech innovations hold promise for tackling agricultural challenges such as pandemics, offering solutions, for a better future.

“Through the harnessing of science and technology, we can develop resilient crop varieties, improve pest and combat disease resistance in crops.

“We can also enhance nutritional content, while ensuring that our agricultural practices are sustainable and environmentally friendly,’’ he said.

Dr Emmanuel Okogbenin, Director, Product Development and Commercialisation, AATF, said agricultural biotechnology, when responsibly developed and effectively adopted, offered a powerful set of tools that could help to address food insecurity.

“Nigeria and Kenya, along with Ghana, stand out as leaders on the continent having made significant progress in commercialising biotech crops such as Bt Cotton, Bt Maize and PBR Cowpea.

“These innovations are not just scientific milestones, they represent real opportunities to transform lives, improve farmer livelihoods, and enhance national food systems,’’ Okogbenin said.

The AATF Director, who was represented by Yarama Ndirpaya, AATF Tela Programme Manager/Out-Grower Strategy Lead in Nigeria, said it was imperative to acknowledge food security hurdles on the continent.

According to him, they included regulatory uncertainties, persistent misinformation, and public scepticism which he said, had continued to slow adaptation of scientific innovations.

“That is why this forum is so important, it offers a platform for evidence-based dialogue where diverse voices can engage, ask questions, share insights, and build common understanding,’’ he said.

The Acting Vice-Chancellor of University of Abuja, Prof. Patricia Lar, said agriculture in Nigeria faced monumental challenges with potential for food insecurity.

According to her, some of the challenges are climate change, pest infestations and soil degradation, adding that these factors threaten the livelihoods of millions of smallholder farmers.

She said that in spite of these challenges, opportunities still existed for innovation, collaboration and transformation.

Represented by Prof. Ahmed Dan-Kishiya, Dean, Faculty of Science, Lar expressed optimism that the power of agricultural biotechnology could be harnessed to save Nigeria from hunger.

Edited by Halima Sheji/Uche Anunne

Dangote, Niger forge multi-billion Naira agric partnership

Ismail Abdulaziz
May, Fri, 2025

Agriculture

Dangote, Niger forge multi-billion Naira agric partnership

240 total views today

In a major boost to commercial agriculture in Nigeria, the Dangote Group and the Niger State Government are fostering sectoral partnership worth billions of Naira.

The conglomerate said significant investment has been deployed into the company’s rice production infrastructure in the state, even as it is partnering the Government on the Niger Food initiative.

The Niger Food initiative is an agricultural development programme launched by the State Government in partnership with private sector players like the Dangote Group.

Senior Special Adviser to the President and Chief Executive of Dangote Group, Fatima Abdurrahman, said the company’s state-of-the-art rice mill in Wushishi is “progressing steadily and on track for completion.”

Speaking Thursday at the official opening of the 2025 Niger National Trade Fair in Minna, she said: “As part of our commitment to advancing agriculture, we plan to establish one of the largest rice mills here in Niger State.”

Dangote Group is one of the sponsors of the 21st Trade Fair organized by the Niger Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NCCIMA).

Speaking on the theme: Commercial Agriculture as the Major Contributor to Sub National Economic Growth and National GDP, she said: “This initiative is expected to enhance food security and generate significant employment opportunities for the state’s population.

“This landmark project represents a significant step forward in bolstering the food security initiatives of the State. Upon its delivery, the mill is expected to enhance local rice production, create employment opportunities, and contribute to the agricultural development of Nigeria.”

According to her, the 32 Metric Tonnes Per Hour Mill is a cutting-edge facility developed on a 30-hectare site, designed to enhance rice production and storage capacity in the State.

“This state-of-the-art facility incorporates the latest innovations in rice milling technology, ensuring high efficiency, minimal waste, and premium-quality output. Once operational, it will not only boost local rice production but also strengthen the entire agricultural value chain, from farm to market,” she added.

She said the project was expected to generate employment opportunities, support local farmers with necessary inputs like fertilizer and seedlings, and contribute to the State’s food security goals.

“We will source the rice from local out growers and act as 100% off takers of the production at competitive market prices. The Dangote Rice Mill will also feature an on-site captive power generation facility capable of producing 5.8 megawatts of electricity. The project aligns with broader efforts to reduce reliance on the national grid.”

She added that close to Wushishi, the company is constructing 32 silos, each with a storage capacity of 2,500 metric tons of paddy rice.

In his remark, Gov. Muhammed Bago, who was represented by the Commissioner for Trade, Investment and Industry, Aminu Takuma, said the state government was opening up the state for investment in commercial agriculture.

He commended the Dangote Group, and urged it to take advantage of several investment opportunities and the conducive environment in the state.

He also announced that plans was afoot to make the Niger Trade Fair an international event.

Speaking earlier, President of the Niger Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NCCIMA), Dr Bisi Adeniyi, called on the private sector to take advantage of the massive land in Niger State, and invest in agriculture.

In his remarks, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sabi Abdullahi, who was represented by Dr Suleiman Ladan, said commercial agriculture is central to the President Bola Tinubu economic development agenda.

River basin authorities pledge stronger partnerships for food security

Tosin Kolade
May, Sun, 2025

Agriculture , Food Security

River basin authorities pledge stronger partnerships for food security

358 total views today

By Akpan Glory

The River Basin Development Authorities (RBDAs) have pledged to boost the Federal Government’s food security efforts by forming stronger partnerships and adopting modern agricultural technologies.

Alhaji Abubakar Malam, who spoke on behalf of the RBDA Boards and Management teams at the close of a two-day retreat in Abuja on Saturday, acknowledged the numerous challenges facing the authorities.

He noted the persistent issues of ageing infrastructure, extreme weather conditions, and insecurity that continue to hinder optimal productivity across their zones.

Malam, who is also the Managing Director of the Sokoto Rima River Basin Development Authority, noted the dilapidated state of facilities and outdated equipment that limit the full potential of the river basin authorities.

“Our facilities are obsolete, and climate change is exacerbating the situation with flooding, erosion, and erratic weather patterns.

“Yet, we remain undeterred. We are committed to innovating, adopting modern irrigation technologies, and shifting the narrative of the River Basins to a more sustainable and productive future”.

Malam emphasised that these objectives cannot be achieved in isolation and stressed the importance of collaboration.

He stated, “We are committed to building strong partnerships, particularly with state governments, to ensure that local actions are aligned with national priorities.

“Collaboration is key to enhancing extension services, addressing community needs, and improving project outcomes”.

The Managing Directors also assured stakeholders that the river basin authorities will continue to maintain open-door policies under the federal government’s partial commercialisation framework, which aims to encourage private sector investment.

This framework is seen as an essential step in reviving Nigeria’s agricultural sector by providing opportunities for agribusiness development, rural economy revitalisation, and sustainable irrigation practices.

“In alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goals 2 (Zero Hunger), 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), and 13 (Climate Action), the RBDAs are focusing on expanding irrigated farmlands, equipping farmers with modern agricultural techniques.

“Others are enhancing value chains to reduce food waste, boost production, and improve market access.

“These efforts are designed to increase food availability and contribute to the goal of achieving food security for the nation by 2027,” he added.

The Joint Appointees Forum further called on development partners, private sector players, and other stakeholders to seize the emerging opportunities in Nigeria’s agriculture sector.

The forum highlighted the potential for collaboration in revitalising rural economies through sustainable irrigation and agribusiness development, which will ultimately support the government’s food security agenda.

The retreat, which brought together the leadership of all twelve RBDAs, concluded with a renewed commitment to achieving tangible, measurable results. (NAN)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

NADF, Katsina govt partner on food system transformation, job creation

Tosin Kolade
Apr, Wed, 2025

Agriculture , Food Security

NADF, Katsina govt partner on food system transformation, job creation

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By Felicia Imohimi

The National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) and Katsina State Government have pledged to transform the country’s food system and create jobs for the populace.

The commitment was made during a courtesy visit by the Gov. Dikko Radda, to the Executive Secretary, NADF, Mohammed Ibrahim, in Abuja.

Radda identified agriculture as the mainstay of the nation’s economy, which provides over 60 per cent of employment for the country’s populace.

He said that the country has no option but to invest in agriculture to position it better to be an export-dependent country, and not import-dependent, as well as be self-sufficient in food production.

“We have no reason to be hungry; we have no reason to be poor. If we can harvest all the potential we have, we will have a great nation, with great people, who will be able to move the nation forward,” he said.

The governor said his visit was to formally congratulate the NADF Executive Secretary on the appointment, as well as see how the state could leverage the fund to transform the food system for the benefit of its populace.

“I pray for this agency to be one of the leading agencies in the country, and also to seek partnership and collaboration with the sub-nationals, especially Katsina State, in transforming agriculture,” he said.

The governor said about 90 per cent of the state population was into agriculture and agricultural value chains, small and medium-scale enterprises from production to processing.

He, however, said that the best investment for any state, especially those in the northern part of the country, was investment in agriculture.

According to him, when one invests in agriculture, the person has invested in the vast majority of the people.

“When you construct a road, it will help in the transportation of agricultural produce, too.

“So, there is nothing we will do to support our people other than to support them in agricultural enterprises.

“But when you invest in agriculture, you are investing in about 90 per cent of your people who are living in abject poverty in the rural areas with no means of livelihood,” he said.

Radda said his administration in 2024 bought over 400,000 bags of fertiliser, which were distributed to every polling unit in the state, considering the impact of agriculture on the livelihood of the large population of the state.

He further said the state distributed solar-powered pumps to rural farmers to reduce the cost of production.

In his remarks, Ibrahim said part of the agency’s mandate was to work with sub-national governments in promoting agricultural development and food security.

According to him, the visit enabled the governor to essentially discuss what the state government was doing and to see how they could leverage its resources.

NADF has a mandate to promote sustainable development and food security by bridging the funding gap, facilitating farmers’ access to finance, and strengthening the agricultural ecosystem.

Edited by Nick Nicholas/Yakubu Uba

Youth, women vital to advancing irrigated agriculture in Africa – Experts

Tosin Kolade
Apr, Thu, 2025

Agriculture , Food Security

Youth, women vital to advancing irrigated agriculture in Africa – Experts

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By Tosin Kolade

Irrigation and water management experts have called for the inclusion of women and young professionals in advancing irrigated agriculture across Africa.

This call was a central theme at the 6th African Irrigation and Drainage (ARCID) Conference, which concluded with an award ceremony on Wednesday night in Abuja.

Mrs Oyeronke Oluniyi, Chairperson of the Nigerian National Committee on Irrigation and Drainage (NINCID), told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the conference stood out for its strong engagement with young professionals from six African countries.

“The level of participation, knowledge-sharing, and innovation brought by these young professionals was impressive.

“They are no longer just learners; they are ready to lead and drive meaningful change in irrigation development across the continent”.

According to Oluniyi, who is also the Director of Irrigation and Drainage at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, a key highlight of the conference was a field visit to an irrigation site near Keffi, Nasarawa.

She described the visit as “a practical eye-opener” that provided real-world insight into the challenges and opportunities within irrigation practice.

She emphasised the importance of harnessing the creativity and energy of young people to promote sustainable agriculture in alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“These young minds are well-positioned to contribute to food security, effective water resource management, and increased agricultural productivity,” she said.

Oluniyi also pointed to a pre-conference youth forum, which provided a platform for delegates from various countries to collaborate, network, and exchange ideas.

Their engagement in the main sessions, she said, brought fresh perspectives to the discussions.

She added that it was inspiring to witness Nigerian youth engaging and forming connections with their peers from across the continent.

“The conference also featured a dedicated session on women’s participation in irrigated agriculture, aimed at empowering women and addressing barriers such as limited access to land and other essential resources.

“During the session, two female farmers; one from the Hadejia Valley Irrigation Project in Jigawa and another from the Kano River Irrigation Scheme in Zamfara, shared their personal stories of transformation and empowerment.

“Their journeys demonstrate that when women are supported, they not only thrive but also uplift others in their communities.

“In essence, our youth and women are not merely participants, but are agents of transformation. With the right support, they can help lead Nigeria and Africa towards a more food-secure and climate-resilient future, “Oluniyi said.

Also speaking at the event, President of the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID), Dr Marco Arcieri, described the conference as a significant milestone for Africa.

He called for greater collaboration and networking to address shared challenges, including water scarcity and food insecurity.

“There are important lessons to take forward. From now on, we must strengthen cooperation and improve coordination to meet our development goals”.

Arcieri also commended the Nigerian National Committee for hosting the event with the backing of the Federal Government, including support from the Ministries of Water Resources, Agriculture, and the Presidency.

“This conference will leave a lasting impact, and ICID remains committed to supporting future progress,” he added.

Mr Inuwa Musa, Co-chair of the 6th ARCID Task Team noted that while advancements are being made, they must be accelerated to meet the demands of a growing population and the increasing impacts of climate change.

“To ensure food security, irrigation must be prioritised, we cannot break the cycle of poverty by farming for just four months a year. Sustainable, year-round food production depends on effective irrigation systems”.

Kuta, representing the Chairman of the African Regional Working Group, also stressed the importance of regional collaboration, particularly when it comes to managing shared water resources.

“Development does not happen in isolation. We must resolve conflicts over transboundary resources like the Niger Basin. There is enough water to meet our needs, though perhaps not our greed. We must learn to share wisely”.

Similarly, an Irrigation and Drainage Expert Mr Razaq Jimoh noted the urgency of scaling up action.

While acknowledging that Africa is on the right path, he warned that progress remains slow, especially given shifting rainfall patterns and other climate-related challenges.

Jimoh, a former Managing Director/CEO of the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, reiterated the need for year-round food production.

“You cannot end poverty by farming for only a few months and surviving on that harvest for the rest of the year.

“The only viable solution is to produce food throughout the year, and that requires functional irrigation systems”.

He also called for an end to disputes over shared water resources, emphasising the need for equitable access and cooperation.

“Most conflicts in inter-basin and transboundary areas stem from unequal access, but there’s enough to meet our collective needs if we prioritise and collaborate”.

In his speech, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, emphasised the need for partnerships and greater investment in irrigation to tackle climate change, population growth, and food insecurity.

Utsev commended the efforts of the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID), the African Regional Working Group, and all participating countries for their dedication to the conference’s goals.

He noted that their collaborative work would pave the way for developing actionable strategies in the irrigation and drainage sector for both Nigeria and the African continent.

Utsev was represented by Mr Moses Jo-Madugu, Director Reforms Coordination with the ministry.

He stressed the importance of collaboration, innovation, and ensuring accessible water resources for farmers to foster prosperity across Africa.

The conference concluded with a renewed commitment from stakeholders across the continent to promote inclusive participation, enhance irrigation infrastructure, and foster regional cooperation to strengthen Africa’s agricultural resilience.

NAN reports that several distinguished individuals were recognised at the award ceremony for their contributions to leadership and governance in the water and agriculture sectors. (NAN)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh

Flour Mills Prize for Innovation transforming food production – Farmer

Tosin Kolade
Apr, Fri, 2025

Agriculture

Flour Mills Prize for Innovation transforming food production – Farmer

320 total views today

By Rukayat Moisemhe

A farmer, Mr Samson Ogbole, says Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc. (FMN) Prize for Innovation (PFI) is promoting innovativeness and sustainability in Nigeria’s agriculture sector.

Ogbole made the assertion on Thursday in Lagos in his report: “A Case Study of Soilless Farm”.

He said that innovation was the backbone of sustainable food systems, adding that for four years, the FMN- PFI had been championing groundbreaking agricultural solutions.

According to him, the PFI identifies and supports visionary entrepreneurs who are transforming food production, processing and distribution.

The farmer noted that since its inception, the competition had produced winners, each securing vital funding and mentorship to scale his agribusinesses and contribute to food security.

“The journey from FMN-PFI finalist to an international agricultural innovator has been transformative for thousands of farmers across Nigeria.

“This multiplier effect exemplifies the vision behind the FMN Prize for Innovation -supporting enterprises that can scale their impact far beyond their initial operations.

“As farmers, we face many challenges, but knowing that there is real support for innovation and growth from big and reliable organisations, such as FMN, gives us the confidence to keep pushing forward,” he said.

Ogbole said that his innovation – Soilless Farm Lab, was bridging knowledge gap in agritech by focusing on skill retooling and upskilling for young people.

He said that the farm had become a hub for learning and innovation, ensuring Nigerian youths would be well-positioned to lead the next wave of agricultural breakthroughs.

Modupe Thani, Head, Corporate Communications, FMN, described Ogbole story as one of the most inspiring stories from PFI.

She noted that Ogbole was the first runner-up at the inaugural edition of FMN PFI, adding that he became a judge at the fourth edition, sharing his insights and experiences with a new generation of agri-preneurs.

Thani said that Ogbole’s journey from a promising innovator to an industry leader was a testament to the impact of FMN PFI in promoting excellence in agriculture.

She said that Ogbole’s Soilless Farm Lab employed advanced hydroponic and aeroponic systems that allowed for year-round cultivation of high-value crops without conventional soil.

According to her, the innovative approach conserves up to 95 per cent of water compared to traditional farming methods.

She added that it eliminated the need for harmful pesticides and reduced carbon footprint associated with food production.

“This nutritional density has earned soilless farm products certification from several international food quality organisations and secured it premium positioning in high-end global markets.

“Beyond running a successful agribusiness, Samson is empowering the next generation of farmers. He actively trains thousands of young Nigerians, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in modern agriculture.

“So far, over 8,000 agricultural jobs have been directly created, 19,368 youths have been skilled in hydroponics, and 23,565 farmers have benefitted from training programmes,” she said.

The official said that by identifying and nurturing ventures such as Soilless Farm, FMN was helping to address fundamental challenges in the country’s agricultural sector, from seasonality constraints to quality consistency.

“The programme’s focus on scalable, technology-driven solutions aligns perfectly with global trends toward more efficient, sustainable food production systems,” she said.

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

FCTA develops agric. policy to boost food security

Philip Daniel Yatai
Apr, Thu, 2025

Agriculture

FCTA develops agric. policy to boost food security

280 total views today

By Philip Yatai

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has started developing its Agricultural Policy and Implementation Plan to guide interventions toward increasing food production in the FCT.

Mr Umar Malamiyo, acting Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, FCT Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, said this at an event in Gwagwalada on Wednesday, adding that the goal was to enhance food security.

Malamiyo was represented at the event by Mr Agu Igwe, the Deputy Director, Public Private Partnership in the Secretariat.

He said the engagement would help government officials and stakeholders to identify key areas that could help farmers to grow major crops in large quantities.

He pointed out that most farmers in the territory lack basic knowledge on irrigation activities and cultivation of certain food crops.

According to him, the policy, when developed, will help FCT to achieve its aims of ensuring food security through adoption of best agricultural practices in food production.

He expressed optimism that the policy document, expected to be ready in six months, would offer solutions to all challenges affecting the agricultural sector in the territory.

Malamiyo said that the FCT Administration does not have a specific policy on agriculture to provide a sense of direction towards achieving good security for residents of the territory.

“Therefore, this exercise is geared toward developing a policy that will guide us on how best to support our farmers to boost agricultural productivity,” he said.

One of the resource persons, Prof. Oyinkan Tasie, said that the policy document would capture strategic areas in the FCT agriculture sector.

Tasie added that the move would deepen the knowledge of farmers in adopting best agricultural practices.

“We are working with the FCT Administration to develop an agriculture policy. This will be the first of its kind since the creation of the FCT.

“Through the policy, the Administration will be able to articulate its vision in the area of agriculture, and in the long run, address hunger and other challenges affecting the attainment of food security” Tasie said.(NAN)

Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

Tosin Kolade
Apr, Sat, 2025

Agriculture

LIFE-ND begins project in 3 states

325 total views today

By Felicia Imohimi

The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)-supported Livelihood Improvement and Family Enterprises in the Niger Delta (LIFE-ND) project has commenced the implementation of an agri-entrepreneurship initiative across Akwa Ibom, Rivers, and Imo states.

Dr Abiodun Sanni, the National Project Coordinator of LIFE-ND, disclosed this in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Abuja.

His statement followed a sensitisation and inspection tour by project officials.

Sanni identified the three states as part of those funded by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

He emphasised that implementation has begun with community sensitisation and the identification of both incubators and incubatees in the participating states.

According to him, the sensitisation aims to create awareness within the communities and instil a sense of ownership.

He noted that the exercise involved engaging community members and leaders, as well as identifying potential incubators (trainers) and incubatees (trainees) in the respective Local Government Areas.

“This sensitisation exercise creates a background to the next exercise, which is profiling of potential incubators and incubatees who are the key players in the LIFE-ND incubation model.

“This model takes it roots from the traditional master-apprenticeship system popularly practised in the eastern region of Nigeria.

“The set target is that each state is expected to empower 4,250 beneficiaries and there is a deliberate effort at ensuring gender balance is achieved,” he said.

Sanni explained that the identified beneficiaries would be profiled and that prospective incubators and incubatees would subsequently be selected.

“In terms of commodity focus, Akwa Ibom will prioritise cassava, oil palm, poultry, and aquaculture; Imo will focus on cassava, rice, poultry, and aquaculture; while Rivers will target cassava, plantain, poultry, and aquaculture.

“The overall goal of the LIFE-ND project is to realise a transformed rural economy in the Niger Delta from which the rural population can derive prosperity and equal benefit.

“The project development objective is to enhance income, food security and job creation for rural youth and women through agri-enterprise development on a sustainable basis in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria”.

The LIFE-ND project, a joint initiative of the Federal Government and IFAD, officially began on February 21, 2019.

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS) serves as the lead implementing agency, while NDDC acts as a partner in delivering the project across the nine Niger Delta states.

The project is targeting a total of 38,250 beneficiaries across Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Imo, Ondo, and Rivers states.

Sanni clarified that IFAD is funding six of the states; Abia, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, and Ondo, while the remaining three are funded by NDDC.

He further noted that the project includes an initial six-year phase with parallel funding from NDDC, and an additional six years under future IFAD financing.

According to Sanni, “IFAD has released 60 million US dollars in the first which has enabled the implementation of the project in the six states of Abia, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo and Ondo from 2019 to 2025.

“NDDC funded states commenced implementation in 2024 when its made the initial commitment of 2.5 million dollars in August 2024 and another 2.5 million dollars in Jan. 2025. The said amount will enable the three states swing into full implementation”.

Meanwhile, on the ground in Imo State, stakeholders are already witnessing the impact of the project.

Mr Mbaeyi Emeka, an incubator and owner of Prince Mbaeyi Emeka Farm in Obollo Autonomous Community, Isiala Mbano Local Government Area, commended the LIFE-ND intervention.

Emeka recounted that he had previously operated as a subsistence cassava farmer before joining the project.

Now, he proudly identifies as a full-fledged commercial farmer.

“I advise youth and women indulging in cassava production to be dedicated. If you can endure for one year when the cassava has matured, you will realise bumper harvest, self-sustaining economically and employer of labour.

“There is money in farming, especially cassava.

“When l came back from Italy after spending four years l went into farming which is profitable.

“So, l advise people to be courageous and go into farming especially cassava production rather than waiting time in expectation of civil service and oil job that is not available,” he said.

Similarly, Mrs Ifeoma Njoku, an incubatee under Mbaeyi Farms, described cassava farming as a lucrative venture.

She encouraged other women to take advantage of the LIFE-ND project to improve their livelihoods and boost household incomes.

She praised the project for alleviating the struggles of the less privileged.

Also, Mr Young-man Soseipiri, Assistant Farm Manager at Petros Poultry Farms in Ngor Okpala Local Government Area, said the initiative had provided an opportunity to train incubatees in broiler and layer production. (NAN)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

Kwara, IsDB to invest .2m in livestock development project

Tosin Kolade
Apr, Fri, 2025

Agriculture

Kwara, IsDB to invest $57.2m in livestock development project

261 total views today

By Afusat Agunbiade-Oladipo

Kwara Government has partnered with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), Saudi Arabia, to invest $57.2 million in an agricultural transformation initiative aimed at boosting livestock production and rural development.

The State Coordinator of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ), Dr Busari Isiaka, confirmed the partnership in an interview with journalists on Thursday in Ilorin.

He said that the project was funded through this partnership to establish robust infrastructure for investors and local farmers in beef and milk processing.

Isiaka emphasised the significance of the project, saying it marked the first time a sitting governor had served as chairman of a steering committee for such an initiative.

“To understand the importance of this project, it is a five-year initiative with joint funding from the state government and IsDB.

“While other states in the federation receive support from the African Development Bank, Kwara is pioneering this collaboration with the Islamic Development Bank,” he said.

He further highlighted that Kwara demonstrated early commitment by swiftly paying its counterpart funds, making it the first state to fulfill its financial obligations.

“This prompt action has enabled significant progress on the project.

“The initiative primarily focuses on improving agricultural infrastructure, particularly in the livestock sector, with the core objective of enhancing the livelihoods of rural communities.

“The SAPZ project will prioritise youth and women while promoting food and nutritional security.

“It is designed to provide sustainable solutions for livestock farmers by ensuring access to modern processing facilities,” he added.

Dr Isiaka also stated that the project was being implemented in five local government areas– Ifelodun, Kaiama, Baruten, Asa, and Moro.

He explained that it would feature Agricultural Transformation Centres.

“Here, local farmers can process raw materials such as milk before transporting them to an agro-industrial hub in Malete, Moro Local Government Area, for further processing into dairy products like yogurt and cheese.

“The beef value chain will also be integrated into the project, with necessary facilities to support meat processing.

“To ensure smooth execution, we conducted extensive environmental assessments and community consultations.

“We have profiled over 5,000 beneficiaries, ensuring that the infrastructure meets their needs, including access to potable water,” he said.

According to Isiaka, the project is currently in its design phase and is expected to transition into full infrastructure development later this year.

He also revealed that the state government had engaged consultants to attract both local and international investors to the project.

“The goal of the Special Agro-Processing Zone (SAPZ) is to reduce agricultural wastage and enhance value addition.

“Kwara is positioning itself as a leader in livestock processing, and this initiative will ensure that our farmers benefit immensely,” he said.(NAN)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa