By Awwal Umar Kontagora The Government of Ghana has expressed interest in partnering with the Kebbi State Government to explore ...
By Awwal Umar Kontagora
The Government of Ghana has expressed interest in partnering with the Kebbi State Government to explore avenues for enhancing rice production, aiming to benefit both nations.
Ghana’s Minister for Food and Agriculture, Mr. Eric Opoku, made the call during a courtesy visit to the Deputy Governor of Kebbi State, Senator Umar Abubakar-Tafida, at the Cabinet Office in Birnin Kebbi on Friday.
Opoku, who led the Ghanaian delegation to Nigeria, emphasized the importance of collaboration among African nations to boost agricultural output and achieve self-sufficiency in food production.
“After hearing about WACOT’s success story in rice production, we thought, yes, Ghana and Nigeria share deep historical ties and common values. Anglophone countries have long cooperated across various sectors.
“Our multifaceted, symbiotic relationship spans tourism and numerous developmental initiatives. Life is a process of continuous learning—when there's something worth learning, we must come, observe, engage with stakeholders, and ensure any decision we take is well-informed,” he said.
He explained that this objective forms the basis of their visit to Nigeria.
“As a matter of protocol,” he added, “when you enter someone’s domain, it is proper to pay homage to the host, acknowledge your presence, and inform them of your mission—especially when it concerns critical official matters.
“That is why we are here: to engage our brother, the Deputy Governor, and explore additional areas of cooperation that can drive progress in both countries.”
In his response, Deputy Governor Abubakar-Tafida welcomed the Ghanaian delegation and commended their initiative. He encouraged sustained collaboration for mutual benefit.
He noted that the visit underscored Ghana's commitment to leveraging the agricultural potential in Kebbi State.
Reflecting on the historical ties between Nigeria and Ghana dating back to the pre-independence era, the deputy governor expressed confidence that the collaboration would mark a new chapter in bilateral development.
Describing Kebbi as Nigeria’s rice hub, Abubakar-Tafida applauded the commitment of Governor Nasir Idris (Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu), who has continued to support farmers with free distribution of fertilizers to boost morale and productivity.
“In line with his vision to maintain Kebbi’s leading role in rice and wheat production in Nigeria, the governor has ensured sustained irrigation activities across the state. Recently, he distributed pumping machines and improved seeds free of charge to farmers.
“Food is the foundation of everything in life, which is why food security is crucial,” he stated.
The deputy governor further highlighted that the governor’s support for local farmers aims to enhance livelihoods, strengthen national food security, and ensure food remains affordable and accessible to all citizens.
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