By Abdullahi Idris, Dutse Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has reiterated his administration’s commitment to empowering farmers and enha...
By Abdullahi Idris, Dutse
Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has reiterated his administration’s commitment to empowering farmers and enhancing partnerships to drive agricultural development in the state.
Governor Namadi made this pledge during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Flour Millers Association of Nigeria (FMAN) at the Government House in Dutse. He emphasized the critical role agriculture plays in Jigawa’s economy, noting that 85% of the state’s population is directly engaged in farming.
“As a government, we have no option but to promote agriculture,” the governor stated. He highlighted his administration's comprehensive agricultural policy, which aligns with its 12-point agenda for growth and development.
“We believe agriculture is the backbone of our economy, and we have a comparative advantage in this sector. With strong partnerships like the one we have with FMAN, we will continue to empower our farmers and elevate Jigawa's agricultural sector to new heights.”
The governor outlined several key initiatives aimed at boosting agricultural productivity, including a partnership with FMAN to support wheat farming. He revealed that Jigawa State is on track to bring over 120,000 hectares of land into production this year, a significant increase compared to previous years.
“Through partnerships and mechanization, we are expanding our reach and ensuring that farming becomes not only a viable livelihood but a profitable business for our people.”
Governor Namadi commended FMAN’s efforts and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting initiatives that uplift farmers and enhance agricultural productivity in the state.
“Our goal is to ensure that farming becomes a sustainable and profitable venture for every farmer in Jigawa. We are fully committed to working with FMAN and other stakeholders to achieve this vision.”
He also highlighted ongoing discussions with the African Development Bank and other international partners to secure additional funding and resources for expanding agricultural projects in the state.
“We are on a path to creating a robust, self-reliant agricultural sector that will provide jobs, increase food security, and boost the economy of Jigawa State.”
Earlier, the President of FMAN, Alhaji Shehu Olalekan, expressed appreciation for the governor’s continuous support and the long-standing partnership with Jigawa State. He noted that Jigawa accounts for 65% of FMAN’s beneficiaries in their outgrower program, which has empowered over 10,000 farmers across Nigeria.
“Your Excellency, under your leadership, Jigawa has become a beacon of agricultural excellence in Nigeria. We are proud to be part of this journey and look forward to expanding our collaboration for the benefit of our farmers and communities.”
FMAN has been instrumental in seed production and distribution, covering over 10,000 hectares of farmland. The association’s initiatives, such as demonstration farms and grassroots collection points, have trained and supported thousands of farmers in Jigawa.
Alhaji Olalekan assured Governor Namadi that the partnership will continue to grow, with plans for new interventions and investments in agricultural technology and mechanization.
No comments