The Bauchi State organized a stakeholders’ scoping workshop on the Bauchi State Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ), Phase II project, one of the projects introduced by the African Development Bank (ADB) to boost agriculture and promote food availability and security.

The State Commissioner of Agriculture, Professor Simon Madugu Yalams, speaking at the event held at the Conference Hall of the State Agricultural Development Project (BSADP), noted that the purpose of the workshop is to sensitize the stakeholders about the project.

The commissioner, represented by the Special Adviser to Governor Bala Mohammed on Agriculture, Dr. Iliyasu Aliyu Gital, disclosed that based on the performance of the SAPZ and the quality of the proposed project, other banks, such as the Arab Development Bank and the International Bank for Agricultural Development, are also funding the project.

Kwara Gov. Flags Off Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project
He explained that no fewer than fifty participants have been selected from the 20 local government areas of Bauchi state, with Bauchi LG having five slots, including the university community, security, the media, and government officials, to participate in the SAPZ Phase II project.

He pointed out that the workshop will also give the participants the opportunity to know what is expected of them and their environment, particularly at this time when the project is taking environmental assessment into consideration, adding that SAPZ cannot be started without ensuring that the concerned people are fully aware and educated about it.

AFAN Calls for Establishment of Agricultural Intelligence Centers
“This is because any project has an environmental impact; therefore, we want to assess what the negative impact of the project is going to cause to the environment and what environmental issues the project will benefit from. So today we will discuss them, and if there are any problems with the project, we will know how to mitigate them,” the commissioner said.
https://farmersmanual.com/bauchi-govt-holds-stakeholders-engagement-on-special-agro-industrial-processing-project/

The National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) has distributed agricultural inputs to farmers in Abia, Kebbi, and Yobe to maximize crop cultivation for improved yields and ensure the availability of staple food for the citizenry amidst dwindling global resources and food shortages.
The Executive Secretary of NALDA, Prince Paul Ikonne, while addressing farmers in Abia State, assured them that his agency will continue to support farmers with agricultural inputs regularly, stating that the contact details of all the beneficiaries have been captured in the agency’s database and more farmers will be added to the list from time to time.
He highlighted that the essence of the empowerment program is to increase food security, adding that the program is a fulfillment of President Bola Tinubu’s promise to ensure Nigerians get enough food at affordable prices.
“The essence of what we’re doing here today is to ensure Nigerians understand the importance of farming, make sure we produce what we eat, and reduce the price of food in the market. We are expecting nothing less than 340 hectares to be cultivated by these farmers,” he said.
Beneficiaries in Abia and Yobe States received high-grade fertilizer, herbicides, and improved maize seeds, while beneficiaries in Kebbi received improved rice seeds that can effectively cover half an hectare of farmland.
In Abia, beneficiaries from all local governments of the state, including those nominated by the state government and various farmer associations, gathered at the NALDA Institute of Agribusiness and Entrepreneurship, IsiAla Okpu community in Osisioma Local Government Area, to receive empowerment packages from NALDA officials.
It would be recalled that President Tinubu had declared a state of emergency on food, hence the move by NALDA to complement the president’s food security through an empowerment program to cushion the effect of the high cost of living.
https://farmersmanual.com/nalda-distributes-agricultural-inputs-to-farmers-in-three-states/

The Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has called for the revitalization of two irrigation projects in his state; he also made the case for the takeover of the Federal College of Education Gwoza and the resumption of the repatriation of Nigerian refugees living in Chad, Niger, and Cameroon.
The governor disclosed this to journalists after meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the State House in Abuja, noting that the South Chad and Yauri irrigations in the state have the potential to produce food to cater for the needs of the entire northern Nigeria.
He lamented that the two irrigation projects have been threatened by the Boko Haram insurgency, adding that in order to revitalize the project, there is a need to consider establishing a very strong security outfit in the Lake Chad Basin so that people shall have access to the agricultural lands.
The governor said he also discussed the issue of the takeover of the Federal College of Education Gwoza, which was part of some federal institutions established by the previous administration across the country.
“You will recall that the previous administration had established some federal institutions, but unfortunately, not all of them have taken off.“ The federal government decided to stagger the takeover of these institutions.
“I wrote to Mr. President on the need for the takeoff of the Federal College of Education in Gwoza a few months ago.“ I’m pleased to notify you that the President has given approval for the immediate takeoff of the federal College of Education in Gwoza.
In addition to the agriculture initiatives and education, Zulum said he had also received Tinubu’s backing to resume the repatriation of Nigerians taking refuge in the neighboring countries of the Republic of Chad, Niger, and Cameroon.
https://farmersmanual.com/zulum-meets-tinubu-over-revitalization-of-irrigation-and-other-projects-2/

The Katsina State Government has converted 722 local government workers to agricultural extension service officers in order to support farmers with proper information to enhance food security and agricultural production in the state.
Governor Dikko Radda made this disclosure in Katsina at a two-day training organized for the workers with the theme “Building the Future of Extension Services,” saying each of the 361 political wards across the 34 local government areas of the state would have not less than two agricultural extension officers.
The governor stated that the decision became imperative as a game-changer for agricultural development to address the manpower shortage in agricultural extension services, adding that as of May 2023, the state had only 72 extension workers.
He noted that the conversion was to strengthen extension services and ensure massive food production, assuring farmers that the government would provide them with improved seeds and other inputs to boost productivity.
Radda explained that they will be trained in their respective senatorial zones and local government areas to ensure that they master the concept very well, and that each of them will be given a motorcycle for easy movement within their area of responsibility.
Also speaking was the Commissioner of Agriculture and Livestock Development, Ahmed Bakori, who noted that the government was determined to transform agricultural activities to attain food sufficiency and security, as well as address the current insecurity in the state.
The commissioner said that the responsibility of the extension workers was to deliver the latest scientific information regarding farming that would trigger growth in agriculture directly to farmers, while charging the participants to pay attention to what they would be taught so they would be able to disseminate it properly to farmers.
https://farmersmanual.com/katsina-govt-converts-722-lg-workers-to-agricultural-extension-officers/

The federal government, through the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), has announced a support package worth N1.6 billion for ginger farmers, tagged the GRATE package, which stands for Ginger Recovery Advancement and Transformation for Economic Empowerment.
The Executive Secretary of NADF, Mohammed Ibrahim, disclosed this at the launch of the Ginger Blight Epidemic Control Taskforce Support Initiative in Kaduna, saying the task force was established in response to the epidemic crisis facing ginger in three states and Abuja.
The NADF Secretary disclosed that 15,000 ginger farmers from Kaduna, Plateau, and Nasarawa states, including the FCT, were affected by the recent ginger blight epidemic in the country, which coincided with a period of significant growth in ginger exports.

Ibrahim lamented that the National Bureau for Statistics (NBS) has started reporting a significant increase in revenue from ginger exports, reaching N10 billion in Q2 of 2023, compared to N4.6 billion in the same period in 2022.
He highlighted the support package for ginger farmers, which includes 1pc 20kg bag of high-yield seed variety, 4pc 50kg bags of NPK fertilizer, 2pc 50kg bags of urea, 2pc 1kg bag of fungicide, 1pc 1ltr of insecticide, 2pc 1 liter of herbicide, and 1pc 2 liter of post-emergence herbicide.

“At the first instance, the federal government, through the NADF, is providing support valued at N1.6 billion, starting with 1 ha of input packs aptly named the GRATE package, which is the Ginger Recovery Advancement and Transformation for Economic Empowerment,” he said.
The Technical Assistant on Agriculture, Office of the Vice President, Marian Moon, remarked that the presidency is addressing agriculture and ginger farming as part of the government’s renewed hope agenda, while encouraging farmers to boost ginger production in the country to meet global demand for Nigerian ginger, citing Mexico’s efforts to grow it due to its high quality.
https://farmersmanual.com/nadf-supports-ginger-farmers-with-n1-6-billion/

Fan Milk PLC has announced a strategic 5-year partnership agreement with Obasanjo Farms Nigeria Limited, aimed at advancing dairy farming expansion and promoting local sourcing of dairy raw materials in Nigeria.

Former president and Chairman of Obasanjo Farms Limited, Olusegun Obasanjo, expressed excitement over the partnership to drive forward dairy farm expansion, enhance productivity, and contribute to the development of Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

The General Manager of Danone Sub-Saharan Africa, Mr. Herve Barrere, noted that the partnership emphasizes the importance of sourcing raw materials locally, empowering local farmers, improving their livelihoods, and contributing to the growth of the agricultural sector.

According to the terms of the partnership agreement, Fan Milk Plc would off-take the fresh milk produced and would also provide training and technical capacity building for the personnel.

Barrere explained that the partnership marks a milestone in Fan Milk PLC’s commitment to backward integration, following the successful launch of its model dairy farm in Odeda Ogun State and training for local dairy farmers in the Odeda Dairy Training Institute in 2022.

He emphasized that the collaboration also aligns with some of the current government administration’s agenda, including ensuring food security, promoting economic growth and job creation, and ending poverty.

The Director, Legal Public Affairs, and General Secretary of Fan Milk, Olakunle Olusanya, stated that this partnership is a testament to Fan Milk PLC’s commitment to fostering sustainable dairy development, increasing local food security, and improving the business ecosystem in Nigeria.

Also speaking was the project lead for Obasanjo Farms Nigeria Limited, Dr. Olusegun Ariyo, who stated that the partnership will enable both companies to take steps towards a more efficient and economically sustainable environment for dairy farming in Nigeria.

On his own, the Managing Director of Fan Milk Plc, Mr. Kayode Adebiyi,pointed out that the partnership is designed to leverage the strengths of both organizations to enhance local dairy production, reduce import dependency, and foster sustainable agricultural practices.
https://farmersmanual.com/fan-milk-plc-partners-obasanjo-farms-on-advancement-of-dairy-farming/

The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) has announced its commitment to engage with the government of Nigeria on the food production value chain and climate-smart agricultural practices and to think about the future direction and support needed to ensure food security.

The Associate Vice President of IFAD, Rome, Dr. Donal Brown, made this disclosure while addressing journalists on the outcome of his meetings with the Nigerian authorities, expressing confidence that the present administration is committed to food security.

He explained that the aim of his visit was to meet the new government and review IFAD’s support for the government, pointing out that IFAD’s current portfolio in Nigeria stands at about $400 million while it commits about $110 million every three years in the country.

NCCC Partners CAA to Address Climate Change in Nigeria
Brown revealed that since its presence in Nigeria, IFAD has spent about $1.5 billion in the country supporting agricultural projects, adding that IFAD and the Nigerian government are currently designing a new project to support the food production value chain in northern Nigeria and climate adaptation.

“Nigeria is facing many challenges, as you all know, with inflation and the issue of food. The president declared an emergency on food security, and I think he can make a difference in that context,” the IFAD Associate Vice President said.

GAIN Distributes Processing Equipment to Improve Food Security in Oyo
The IFAD Country Director, Mrs. Dede Ekoue, said the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprise Project for the Niger Delta (LIFE-ND) and the Value Chain Development Program (VCDP) have strong performances on the ground through the adoption of strategies to strengthen the resilience of farmers to climate change while also working to enhance food and nutrition security.

According to her, projects of the Nigerian government and IFAD have had great success around several parameters, which include significant improvements in productivity, production, income, and the inclusion of women, youth, and people living with disabilities.
https://farmersmanual.com/ifad-supports-food-production-value-chain-and-climate-adaptation-in-nigeria-2/

Senator Abubakar Kyari, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, has warned commodity traders against hoarding and speculative trading as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to reduce hardship and scale up food production in the country.

The minister made this warning in Abuja at a special Ramadan lecture/Iftar themed ‘Gratitude, Patience, and Vision: Embracing Challenges with Optimism’, organized by the Special Assistance to the President on Agriculture and Food Security, Mufutau Yinusa.

Kyari said the Federal Government would continue to work round the clock to ensure food security for the nation while addressing the insecurity challenge frontally. He lamented the increase in the cost of food items, but nothing apart from insecurity has affected agricultural production; the issue of hoarding has exacerbated the problem.

“We have seen and discovered some warehouses in big commodity areas where even gates are removed and walls are built just to hoard food stuff inside.“ Some of the problems we are facing are also man-made; hoarding, for instance, and speculative trade by commodity traders are also very huge.

“So when you look at those things and say it’s Bola Tinubu, I think we are not being fair to the administration of this government. “So we have to look inward; we all have a role to play,” the minister added.

Also speaking was the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Aliyu Abdullahi, who highlighted the Federal Government’s commitment to working with relevant stakeholders to address the economic challenges facing the nation.

The Imam of Abuja National Mosque, Sheik Muhammad Kabir, in his lecture, admonished Muslims to shun corruption while contributing positively to nation-building.

The Islamic cleric stressed the need for Nigerians to continue to pray and support the current administration in addressing the myriad of problems confronting the country.
https://farmersmanual.com/kyari-warns-against-hoarding-and-speculative-trading-of-grains/

The Kwara state government has flagged off the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), a six-year $500 million food security program supported by the World Bank and the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, while flagging off the program, noted that the program, in addition to the massive investment of his administration in the development of the livestock sector, will help to improve the livestock value chain production sector.
The governor explained that Kwara has a comparative advantage in all areas of livestock production, particularly beef and dairy production, giving the administration the privilege to key into programs like the special agroprocessing zone and the livestock productivity and resilience support project.
“We aim to ensure that the smallholder farmers become commercial farmers so that they can respond to demand for quality food from urban centers, climate change, contributions to the global economy, and also ensure that families have an adequate supply of animal protein and an improved livelihood,” he added.
The National Project Coordinator for L-PRES, Sanusi Abubakar, noted on his own that the objectives of the program are to improve productivity, commercialization, and resilience of the targeted livestock value chain in Nigeria, as well as strengthen the resilience of livelihoods affected by farmer-herder conflict.
Abubakar disclosed that Kwara is among the five states being visited during this implementation mission out of fifteen states on the program, adding that apart from the fact that Kwara has the largest disbursement of three million dollars, it is also the first state to appreciate disbursement twice since the inception of this project, having already been disbursed in the last quarter of the year 2023.
Also speaking was the Commissioner for Agriculture, Oloruntoyosi Adebayo Thomas, who noted that Kwara has hit positive milestones in the project due to the visionary leadership of the governor and the processes and policies that have been put in place to qualify and meet the very stringent requirements of these developmental projects.
https://farmersmanual.com/kwara-gov-flags-off-livestock-productivity-and-resilience-support-project/

In order to improve food security, the Kwara state government has again supported 2,019 indigent farmers in the state with agricultural input in the third phase of the Kwara Fadama NG-CARES intervention program.
The state governor, Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, while flagging off the third disbursement exercise, stated that interventions are tailored towards easing hardship in the country, noting that such interventions will go a long way towards reducing hunger and poverty.
Items received by farmers at the ceremony included knapsack sprayers with PPE (personal protective equipment), fish smoking kilns, rain gun sprinklers, water pumping machines with accessories for fish farmers, poultry feeders and drinkers, small ruminants, maize shellers, and soybean threshers.

The governor, who was represented by the Chairman, State Fadama Technical Committee, and Permanent Secretary, Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr. Ishiaq Olayinka Oloruko-Oba, said the items given will be monitored to ensure that they are judiciously used.
The State Project Coordinator, Kwara Fadama CARES, Engineer Dr. Busari Toyin Isiaka, pointed out on his own that the project is premised on the objectives of the COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus with the support of the Governor, which ensure free distribution of the agricultural inputs and assets.

He highlighted that there had been two phases of disbursement by Kwara Fadama CARES, adding that Governor AbdulRazaq has supported 16,600 indigent farmers through Kwara Fadama CARES so far, assuring farmers of more interventions.
“With the support of His Excellency, we are giving 2,019 farmers succor today. In the first disbursement in the year 2022, 6,561 farmers benefited from both input and asset distribution, while, as a sequel, 8,020 beneficiaries emerged in the second phase.” Isiaka said
https://farmersmanual.com/kwara-govt-empowers-farmers-with-farm-inputs-2/

The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) has announced its commitment to engage with the government of Nigeria on the food production value chain and climate-smart agricultural practices and to think about the future direction and support needed to ensure food security.

The Associate Vice President of IFAD, Rome, Dr. Donal Brown, made this disclosure while addressing journalists on the outcome of his meetings with the Nigerian authorities, expressing confidence that the present administration is committed to food security.

He explained that the aim of his visit was to meet the new government and review IFAD’s support for the government, pointing out that IFAD’s current portfolio in Nigeria stands at about $400 million while it commits about $110 million every three years in the country.

Brown revealed that since its presence in Nigeria, IFAD has spent about $1.5 billion in the country supporting agricultural projects, adding that IFAD and the Nigerian government are currently designing a new project to support the food production value chain in northern Nigeria and climate adaptation.

“Nigeria is facing many challenges, as you all know, with inflation and the issue of food. The president declared an emergency on food security, and I think he can make a difference in that context,” the IFAD Associate Vice President said.

The IFAD Country Director, Mrs. Dede Ekoue, said the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprise Project for the Niger Delta (LIFE-ND) and the Value Chain Development Program (VCDP) have strong performances on the ground through the adoption of strategies to strengthen the resilience of farmers to climate change while also working to enhance food and nutrition security.

According to her, projects of the Nigerian government and IFAD have had great success around several parameters, which include significant improvements in productivity, production, income, and the inclusion of women, youth, and people living with disabilities.
https://farmersmanual.com/ifad-supports-food-production-value-chain-and-climate-adaptation-in-nigeria/

The Ekiti state government, through the Ekiti State Forestry Commission, has destroyed a 20-hectare Indian hemp plantation and nursery prepared for the transplanting of illegal weeds within the Ise Forest Reserves.
The Executive Secretary of the State Forestry Commission, Sunday Adekunle, in Ado-Ekiti, stated that the plantation was set on fire by officers of the commission in order to make the state forest reserves more productive and flush out men of the underworld from the reserves, in line with the agenda of the Commission.
He disclosed that the action followed a tip-off that some miscreants were engaging in nefarious activities in the government reserves along the Ise axis, adding that the commission is fully committed to combating illegalities in the state forest reserves while also actualizing its mandate of reducing the rate of deforestation.
Adekunle pointed out that the commission would continue to embark on public education and sensitization on key areas such as tree planting, wildlife, fire control, and other matters in its bid to boost forest conservation and afforestation efforts across forest reserves in the state.
The Executive Secretary thanked the state government for the recent recruitment of 22 new forest officers and 17 boundary guards by the Governor Biodun Oyebanji-led administration, saying that the recruitment exercise was now having the required multiplier effect in terms of improved security through regular patrols of the forest reserves.
According to him, efforts were made to encourage local farmers to engage in farming activities on some lands within the forest reserves through agroforestry methods, particularly through the planting of tree seedlings being currently raised at the Commission’s Central Nursery at Erinfun in Ado-Ekiti.
https://farmersmanual.com/ekiti-forestry-task-force-destroys-indian-hemp-plantation/

The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, has called on oil palm stakeholders to take advantage of technology and innovations as part of measures to optimize yields, reduce waste, and boost growth in the industry.

Speaking at an interactive meeting with stakeholders in Benin City, Edo State, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Nuru Abba Rimi, urged stakeholders to adopt sustainable agricultural methods, invest in conservation efforts, and ensure that operations are in harmony with the delicate eco system surrounding plantations.

The meeting, which was part of an on-the-spot assessment of the oil palm industry and was scheduled for six states, including Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Abia, Imo, Edo, and Ondo States, was organized by the Commodities and Export Department in the ministry in collaboration with the National Palm Produce Association of Nigeria (NPPAN).

Rimi, who was represented by Gambo Magaji, Chief Commercial Officer, advised stakeholders to recognize that challenges lie ahead and urged them to collaboratively work towards a vision that ensures the continued success of the oil palm industry.

“We must recognize the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing. By fostering partnerships with research institutions, industry experts, and international organizations, we can tap into a wealth of expertise and stay at the forefront of advancement in oil palm cultivation,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, the National President of the National Palm Produce Association of Nigeria (NPPAN), who was represented by Harrison Okpamen, Vice President (South), advised the government to establish palm cities across producing states to enable clusters of smallholder farmers to use common facilities for improved productivity.

In attendance were Edo State Commissioner for Agriculture, Steve Ideheenre, and other stakeholders in the oil palm industry, including representatives of the Bank of Industry (BoI) and the Nigerian Institute for Oil Palm Research (NIFOR), among others
https://farmersmanual.com/fg-calls-on-oil-palm-stakeholders-to-adopt-technology-in-boosting-growth/

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), in partnership with the government of the Republic of Ireland, commenced the Greening Abuja initiative with the planting of 1000 trees to develop a robust and environmentally sustainable Federal capital city.
The Irish ambassador to Nigeria, Peter Ryan, said his country’s collaboration with the FCTA on the Greening Abuja initiative was in commemoration of Irish National Day, St. Patrick’s Day, reinforced by the commitment of the FCT minister to develop a robust and environmentally sustainable federal capital city.
Ryan pointed out that the initiative would see 1000 trees planted before the middle of the year, while emphasizing that Ireland treasures natural landscapes and natural beauty, hence its drive to collaborate with the FCTA effort in relation to the Global Environmental Response to reinforce the environment and make it healthier and more sustainable.
The minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, speaking at the kickoff of the initiative at the City Gate, Abuja, appreciated the Irish government’s partnership to improve the environment in Abuja through tree planting.
The minister, represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Environment, Fred Kpako, congratulated the Irish government for the celebration of its National Day, stressing that the FCT Administration is open to pertinent collaborations to accomplish this objective.
He emphasized that President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s Renewed Hope Initiative spans across all sectors and is committed to reaching every corner of the FCT to fulfill the government’s mandate to the people.
Also speaking was the Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES), Adedolapo Fasawe, who assured that the FCT Parks and Recreation Department will be responsible for ensuring that the gardens and trees are adequately cared for to guarantee the nurturing and sustainability of the planted trees.
https://farmersmanual.com/fcta-partners-irish-govt-over-greening-abuja-initiative-begins-tree-planting/

In order to improve food security, the Kwara state government has again supported 2,019 indigent farmers in the state with agricultural input in the third phase of the Kwara Fadama NG-CARES intervention program.
The state governor, Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, while flagging off the third disbursement exercise, stated that interventions are tailored towards easing hardship in the country, noting that such interventions will go a long way towards reducing hunger and poverty.
Items received by farmers at the ceremony included knapsack sprayers with PPE (personal protective equipment), fish smoking kilns, rain gun sprinklers, water pumping machines with accessories for fish farmers, poultry feeders and drinkers, small ruminants, maize shellers, and soybean threshers.
The governor, who was represented by the Chairman, State Fadama Technical Committee, and Permanent Secretary, Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr. Ishiaq Olayinka Oloruko-Oba, said the items given will be monitored to ensure that they are judiciously used.
The State Project Coordinator, Kwara Fadama CARES, Engineer Dr. Busari Toyin Isiaka, pointed out on his own that the project is premised on the objectives of the COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus with the support of the Governor, which ensure free distribution of the agricultural inputs and assets.

He highlighted that there had been two phases of disbursement by Kwara Fadama CARES, adding that Governor AbdulRazaq has supported 16,600 indigent farmers through Kwara Fadama CARES so far, assuring farmers of more interventions.
“With the support of His Excellency, we are giving 2,019 farmers succor today. In the first disbursement in the year 2022, 6,561 farmers benefited from both input and asset distribution, while, as a sequel, 8,020 beneficiaries emerged in the second phase.” Isiaka said
https://farmersmanual.com/kwara-govt-empowers-farmers-with-farm-inputs/

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security has disclosed that the Federal Government is targeting the provision of 10,000 tractors to Nigerian farmers over the next five years to successfully embark on mechanized farming and boost food productivity in the country.
The Minister, Senator Abubakar Kyari, revealed during a technical meeting with John Deere Group at the headquarters of the Ministry in Abuja that 2,000 tractors would be supplied and made available to farmers this year, in line with the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) the Ministry signed with John Deere Group in November 2023.
He pointed out that the ministry is being challenged by the fact that the land is shrinking and the need to increase yields, adding that the MoU is a five-year contract to provide 10,000 tractors by supplying 2,000 units of tractors each year.
Kyari explained that Mr. President was deeply interested in ensuring full tractorization of Nigeria, adding that the country needs to increase yield through the application of modern machinery for optimal production of food crops.
The minister revealed the plan to give out those tractors to service providers and set up service centers in 774 local government areas across the country to enable smallholder farmers to access tractor services at affordable costs, while urging the management of John Deere Group to fast track the bringing in of the tractors into Nigeria, in view of the fact that this is already the third month of the year.
Managing Director of John Deere Group, Stephan Gouws, while speaking, assured that the group would work assiduously to deliver on the supply and sales of tractors in Nigeria, stating that the group has worked in various African countries and that the contractual agreement with Nigeria will surely be a success.
https://farmersmanual.com/fg-orders-10000-tractors-for-mechanized-farming/

President Bola Tinubu has commissioned the largest tomato factory in Africa, GB Foods Tomato Processing Company, in Gafara village of Ngaski Local Government Area of Kebbi State, describing it as a huge investment in the agricultural sector.
The president, represented by Abubakar Kyari, the minister of Agriculture and Food Security, reiterated the commitment of his administration to providing a conducive environment for private investors to operate in the country.
He commended the Spanish company for its huge investment in the country, as demonstrated by the planned expansion of the processing facility by the factory’s management.
Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State, in his remarks, commended Spain for finding the state worthy of investment in the agricultural sector while assuring that the state government would remain hospitable to all investors and continue to provide an enabling environment for businesses.
Also speaking was Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammad Idris, who pointed out that the president had created an enabling environment for investors to invest in agriculture towards the attainment of national food security.
The minister commended Governor Nasir Idris for providing the necessary support and encouragement to the company, which was initiated by former governor Atiku Bagudu, the current minister of Budget and National Planning.
“I am happy that GB Foods is the largest tomato processing plant in Africa, as it processes 2,400 metric tons of tomato per day. The action of GB Foods remained a source of discouragement to those who think that all bad things come out of Nigeria. I urge you to remain dogged, and I call on other investors to endeavor to invest across the country,” he advised.
Atiku Bagudu also commended the president for placing a premium on agricultural production and food security, adding that Nigeria is a huge investment destination that can absorb thousands of private investments.
https://farmersmanual.com/tinubu-inaugurates-largest-tomato-processing-factory-in-africa/

The Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN) has deployed the use of artificial intelligence (AI) systems in agriculture to enhance bumper harvests as well as contribute to sustainable development goals geared towards ending hunger and promoting sustainable agriculture, among others.
Prof. Chinenye Anyadike, of the Department of Agric. & Bioresources Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), and the Principal Investigator of the project “Using Artificial Intelligence to Enhance the Production, Marketing, and Management of Nsukka Yellow Pepper,” disclosed this in Nsukka during a policy dialogue on the future of agriculture in the country.
Anyadike noted that the aim of deploying AI systems in agriculture is to improve the quality of farm produce, adding that many rural farmers have been trained on how to use the AI system on their crops to dictate diseases, real-time weather updates, and water management, among others.
The principal officer of the project explained that they are using Nsukka yellow pepper as a pilot crop because of its uniqueness in terms of its yellow color, special aroma, and popular demand locally and internationally.
According to the don, the goal of the project is to draw from the evidence of inclusive and responsible implementation of the AI for agriculture and food system innovation research grant in the Eziani community of Nsukka Local Government Area, Enugu State.
“We developed three systems that enhance early disease detection, water management, and e-extension services that support farmers and provide real-time weather updates, as well as a smart greenhouse,” Anyadike said.
She disclosed that the dialogue was organized by APWEN in partnership with the University of Nigeria, Nsukka researchers, Educare Technologies, Lagos, under the sponsorship of the African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS) and the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), Canada.
https://farmersmanual.com/apwen-deploys-artificial-intelligence-to-enhance-food-production-2/

The Victims Support Fund (VSF) has empowered farmers with farming inputs to ensure that the victims of insurgency are empowered to get back to their farmlands and boost agricultural activities in Borno State and Nigeria as a whole.
The Executive Director of VSF, Prof. Nana Tanko, disclosed during the distribution exercise that the program has been structured to empower 3,000 farmers in two local governments, adding that agricultural extension workers have been trained by VSF on how to boost food production during dry season farming.
She explained that 3,000 beneficiaries were strategically selected from peasant farmers in their various communities based on their agricultural productivity, noting that 1800 farmers were selected from Ngamboru-Nagala LGA, while 1,200 were selected from Gwoza LGA.
According to her, each beneficiary got 25kg of rice seed, 50kg of fertilizer, two liters of insecticides, 1 liter of herbicide, and one Knapsack sprayer, among others.
“The victims support fund led by Gen. TY Danjuma is committed to bringing succor to the victims of insurgency. Now we have distributed dry farming inputs in Ngala, where 1800 beneficiaries received their farm inputs.
“Victims Support Fund has been working in the Northeast since 2014, providing succor to victims of insurgency in areas of peacebuilding, livelihood and recovery, construction, and education. The intervention is part of the VSF 2023 project to support the Borno state agricultural initiative.”
The Borno Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, represented by the state Commissioner of Agriculture, Bawu Musami, who flagged off the distribution exercise, said the items given to the farmers would enhance food production in the state.
He reiterated that the VSF had always been there for the state in times of need, adding that the inputs would help the farmers not only for food production but in strengthening the economy of the state because farming is the backbone of Borno as an agrarian state.
https://farmersmanual.com/vsf-empowers-borno-farmers-with-farm-inputs/

Nigeria’s First Lady, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, has partnered with the National Agricultural Land Authority (NALDA) to launch the Renewed Hope Initiative, targeted at empowering women farmers across the six geopolitical zones.
The First Lady, while speaking at the flag-off in Owerri, Imo State, noted that the commitment of the initiative to supporting women farmers aligns with a broader national agenda to strengthen the agricultural sector in line with the ongoing efforts to support women and youth farmers to produce food and earn income.
She disclosed that the initiative is a 2-in-1 program to support women farmers nationwide, adding that it will support 20 women farmers per state with a sum of N500,000 each, making it a total of 10 million Naira per state.
Mrs. Tinubu also presented bank drafts of N10 million each to the South-East First Ladies, who are the zonal coordinators of the initiative, saying the President Bola Tinubu administration recognizes the pivotal role that agriculture plays in achieving sustainable development and ensuring food sufficiency.
Also speaking was the Executive Secretary of NALDA, Prince Paul Ikonne, who noted that the authority has made provision for two million women under the program, as it’s committed to partnering with the First Lady and going with her all the way across the country in encouraging women in agribusiness.
The wife of Imo State Governor, Mrs. Chioma Uzodimma, while delivering her welcome address, noted that the initiative signifies a profound commitment to the empowerment and upliftment of women across the nation.
Present at the event are the wives of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima, the wife of the Senate President, Mrs. Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, the wives of all the southeast state governors, the wife of the Chief of Staff to the President, Mrs. Salamatu Gbajabiamila, traditional rulers, industrialists, women cooperative groups, stakeholders, and beneficiaries of the scheme from all the southeast states.
https://farmersmanual.com/first-lady-partners-nalda-launches-initiative-to-support-women-farmers/

The Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN) has deployed the use of artificial intelligence (AI) systems in agriculture to enhance bumper harvests as well as contribute to sustainable development goals geared towards ending hunger and promoting sustainable agriculture, among others.
Prof. Chinenye Anyadike, of the Department of Agric. & Bioresources Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), and the Principal Investigator of the project “Using Artificial Intelligence to Enhance the Production, Marketing, and Management of Nsukka Yellow Pepper,” disclosed this in Nsukka during a policy dialogue on the future of agriculture in the country.
Anyadike noted that the aim of deploying AI systems in agriculture is to improve the quality of farm produce, adding that many rural farmers have been trained on how to use the AI system on their crops to dictate diseases, real-time weather updates, and water management, among others.
The principal officer of the project explained that they are using Nsukka yellow pepper as a pilot crop because of its uniqueness in terms of its yellow color, special aroma, and popular demand locally and internationally.
According to the don, the goal of the project is to draw from the evidence of inclusive and responsible implementation of the AI for agriculture and food system innovation research grant in the Eziani community of Nsukka Local Government Area, Enugu State.
“We developed three systems that enhance early disease detection, water management, and e-extension services that support farmers and provide real-time weather updates, as well as a smart greenhouse,” Anyadike said.
She disclosed that the dialogue was organized by APWEN in partnership with the University of Nigeria, Nsukka researchers, Educare Technologies, Lagos, under the sponsorship of the African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS) and the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), Canada.
https://farmersmanual.com/apwen-deploys-artificial-intelligence-to-enhance-food-production/

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS), in partnership with the National Poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy (NPRGS), has trained and empowered smallholder farmers in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Abuja.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Temitope Fadeshemi, in an address of welcome during the opening ceremony of the program at the Agricultural Development Program, ADP office, in Gwagwalada, Abuja, noted that the empowerment became really necessary to ensure enough food to meet the demands of Nigerians.
Fadeshemi, who was represented by the Director, Department of Agricultural Extension Services, Michael Brooks, explained that the program exemplifies the power of synergy in achieving meaningful impact while disclosing that it’s a collaboration between the ministry and the NPRGS.

According to him, farmers are not just the backbone of the agricultural sector and heartbeat but also the heartbeat of national prosperity; hence, they are placed on the front burner under the Tinubu-led ‘Renewed Hope’ Agenda.
“This program is not merely an investment in agriculture; it is an investment in the future of our nation. As we equip these farmers with the tools to enhance productivity, improve resilience, and embrace sustainable practices, we are laying the foundation for a more resilient and prosperous agricultural sector.

“Through initiatives like today’s training and empowerment program, we are sowing the seeds of positive change, ensuring that smallholder farmers have the knowledge, resources, and support needed to thrive in an ever-evolving agricultural landscape.
Also speaking was the Head of Horticulture, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Deola Lordbanjou, who noted that the inputs to boost the productivity of farmers are distributed free of charge in order to solve the problem of hunger in the country.
https://farmersmanual.com/fmafs-partners-nprgs-to-empower-fct-farmers-with-training-and-inputs-2/

The Lagos State Agricultural Development Authority (LSADA), in partnership with Farm Junction, has launched an initiative to link farmers with consumers as part of efforts to tackle the challenge of marketing and post-harvest losses usually experienced by farmers across the country.
The Managing Director of Farm Junction, Yinka Omogoye, at a stakeholders meeting in collaboration with the LSADA, noted that the initiative will provide support structure for farmers to address waste by providing storage facilities, packaging, and logistics to farmers at minimal cost, thereby increasing their return on investment.
Omogoye pointed out that the program is expected to bring stakeholders in the agricultural value chain under an umbrella with the intention of bringing produce to consumers or exporters, encourage farmers to produce more, and guarantee food security for Lagos in the immediate future and for the nation at large.
“If we have food security, everything else will fall into place, so for farmers, don’t be afraid to go to your farm to produce; bring it to us; we will take it from you, process it for you, and we will present your product or produce to the people that will buy and pay you your money.
The program manager for LSADA, Alade Adewale, said in his remarks that the collaboration intends to ensure that there is a market for the farmers while advising them to take advantage of the collaboration.
He noted that the stakeholder meeting is also an avenue to ask the farmers what their problems are, adding that they don’t want to assume farmers’ problems and that they want to hear directly from them what their problems are for LSADA to know how to find solutions to problems.
The Deputy Chairman, All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Lagos State Chapter, Shakin Agbayewa, stated that the initiative is good because the aggregation of farmers together and the provision of storage facilities will help to address the challenges farmers face in selling their produce, especially the perishables.
https://farmersmanual.com/lsada-partners-farm-junction-to-tackle-post-harvest-losses/

The Niger state government has disclosed that it has received $20 million from the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) to plant trees in the state as part of the agriculture and green economy policies of the administration.

Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of the state disclosed this at the Government House in Minna when he received members of the forum of permanent secretaries headed by the Head of Service, Salisu Abubakar, on the occasion of his 50th birthday.

The ACreSAL is a six-year World Bank-assisted project aimed at addressing the challenges of land degradation and environmental challenges arising from climate change and poor land-use practices in Northern Nigeria on a multi-dimensional scale.

The Governor called on permanent secretaries to liaise with the Ministry of Lands and other relevant MDAs for the establishment of civil service farms in all local government areas of the state so that even after retirement they can continue with agriculture.

He boasted that Niger State has set the pace in agriculture, and it’s ready to take it further as land clearing is ongoing in many areas for irrigation and dry-season mechanized farming, adding that the state will support all-inclusive agriculture; hence, people can venture into other aspects of animal husbandry and aquaculture, not just crop production.

Bago appreciated the forum for their goodwill message and gift giving to him for his birthday, while acknowledging that he has stepped on toes but that it was not a personal vendetta but that it was out of the desire to build a new Niger, adding that he will not hesitate to step on more toes in order to take the state to greatness.

The Head of Service, Salisu, on behalf of the forum, felicitated the Governor on his 50th birthday and commended him for the confidence he has in the civil service of the state, adding that the service is proud to be associated with his laudable projects and task of building a new Niger.
https://farmersmanual.com/niger-govt-secures-tree-planting-investment-from-acresal/

The Ekiti state government has attracted a $40 million organic fertilizer factory to be sited in the state by the Turkey-based Alliance Group, boosting employment opportunities and increasing food production and agribusinesses in the state and across the country.
Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, during a meeting with officials of Istanbul, Turkey-based Alliance Group, noted that the government would continue to woo investors to the state in the bid to position it as a major industrial and investment hub in the country.
Oyebanji disclosed that the state had put measures in place for ease of doing business and to safeguard investments in the state, adding that his administration would continue to strengthen and sustain partnerships on projects that are relevant to the development objectives of the government.

He recalled that the state just played host to a team from the American Embassy, led by the Deputy Ambassador and Consul-General, with an investor who wanted to invest in cassava; no investors had gone to the agriculture processing zone.
“We came on board with the mantra of shared prosperity and continuity, and agriculture is so key for us as a people. We have challenges in the country today because of a lack of productivity because if people must prosper, they have to produce,” the governor said.

Also speaking was the leader of the delegation, Sidi Oso, who pointed out that the organization was identifying regions in Africa, particularly Nigeria, looking for states with economic prospects and potential for development in the area of investment.
She commended the governor for having a team of great professionals who are investment-conscious, while expressing hope for more partnerships with the state beyond the fertilizer production project, saying the investment is coming in as an agriculture-water-based fertilizer project, which would go beyond production to the level of marketing the product nationally and internationally.
https://farmersmanual.com/ekiti-attracts-40-million-investment-in-organic-fertilizer-factory/

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS), in partnership with the National Poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy (NPRGS), has trained and empowered smallholder farmers in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Abuja.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Temitope Fadeshemi, in an address of welcome during the opening ceremony of the program at the Agricultural Development Program, ADP office, in Gwagwalada, Abuja, noted that the empowerment became really necessary to ensure enough food to meet the demands of Nigerians.
Fadeshemi, who was represented by the Director, Department of Agricultural Extension Services, Michael Brooks, explained that the program exemplifies the power of synergy in achieving meaningful impact while disclosing that it’s a collaboration between the ministry and the NPRGS.
According to him, farmers are not just the backbone of the agricultural sector and heartbeat but also the heartbeat of national prosperity; hence, they are placed on the front burner under the Tinubu-led ‘Renewed Hope’ Agenda.
“This program is not merely an investment in agriculture; it is an investment in the future of our nation. As we equip these farmers with the tools to enhance productivity, improve resilience, and embrace sustainable practices, we are laying the foundation for a more resilient and prosperous agricultural sector.
“Through initiatives like today’s training and empowerment program, we are sowing the seeds of positive change, ensuring that smallholder farmers have the knowledge, resources, and support needed to thrive in an ever-evolving agricultural landscape.
Also speaking was the Head of Horticulture, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Deola Lordbanjou, who noted that the inputs to boost the productivity of farmers are distributed free of charge in order to solve the problem of hunger in the country.
https://farmersmanual.com/fmafs-partners-nprgs-to-empower-fct-farmers-with-training-and-inputs/

As part of measures to support the Federal Government’s efforts to stabilize food prices and ensure food security in the country, the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS) has initiated a nationwide crackdown on the smuggling, hoarding, and unauthorized exports of agricultural commodities.
This was made known through a statement issued by Akanji Joshua of the Media Communications and Strategies department of the agency, disclosing that the exercise is part of the agency’s mandate to regulate the handling of agricultural products in Nigeria and ensure they are safe for consumption and available at fair prices.
Joshua noted that food security is a paramount concern for the Nigerian government, adding that the agency is committed to ensuring that agricultural commodities are not smuggled out of the country either through ports or land borderers.
“In line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration, we are fully committed to ensuring that Nigerians have more food on their table by strengthening our borders and clamping down on the smuggling of hoarded agricultural commodities.”.
“To combat the illegal smuggling and hoarding of agricultural commodities, NAQS is enhancing its surveillance and control measures at all entry and exit points. “We believe that our efforts to clamp down on smuggling practices will not only help to stabilize food prices but also promote transparency and fairness in the agricultural supply chain.” Joshua said
According to him, officers of the agency are already working tirelessly across the country’s borders and control posts, conducting rigorous inspections and monitoring to prevent the illegal export of agro-commodities.
He noted that the Acting Comptroller General, Dr. Godwin Sunday Audu, had urged the public to report any suspicious activities related to the hoarding or smuggling of agricultural commodities, as community participation and collaboration are vital for the success of this campaign.
https://farmersmanual.com/naqs-begins-clamp-down-on-hoarding-and-smuggling-of-food/

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has disclosed that it is working with government agencies, consultants, and civil society organizations (CSOs) to come up with measures to curb the excessive prices of commodities in the markets.
This was made known through a statement signed by the Executive Vice Chairman of the Commission, Dr. Adamu Abdullahi, stating that any business participating in activities contributing to price gouging in the food chain sector is hereby warned to desist forthwith or face the full force of the law.
According to the statement, the Commission understands the natural apprehension consumers and businesses are experiencing and therefore welcomes continuing engagements and progressive measures to contain price gouging throughout the food distribution chain.

Abdullahi warned that the Commission will not tolerate actions compromising the integrity of the food chain sector, and legal consequences will be swift and severe in addressing key consumer protection and competition issues in the food chain sector.
He noted that the Commission was not a party to the suit where the Federal High Court ordered the Federal Government to fix the prices of certain food commodities, commenting that it is an unusual practice in a free market and that the commission is taking all steps to obtain the judgment of the Court and make appropriate responses.
“For clarity, it is imperative to underscore that the Commission is not mandated to regulate prices. However, in rare situations and pursuant to Part XI and Section 88 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA), the Commission may advise the President to fix the prices of certain goods and services, based on empirical evidence.”.
“Accordingly, the Commission is in this release encouraging the public or anyone with useful information in the food chain industry, with respect to unlocking possible illegal, exclusionary, or restrictive practices that contribute to unfair food prices, to report the same to the Commission through its designated portal.”
https://farmersmanual.com/fccpc-moves-to-prevent-further-increases-in-food-prices-2/

Jigawa Governor Alhaji Umar Namadi has disclosed the plans of the state toward agricultural development through the cultivation of 150,000 hectares of wheat next planting season to improve food security in the state and the county in general.
The governor made this known in Dutse when he received an audience from an Africa Development Bank (AfDB) delegation, noting that the only way to move people out of poverty is through the development of agriculture.
He pointed out that there are plans on the ground to expand the program to other crops for the betterment of citizens in 2025, while giving the assurance of the state’s government’s willingness to maintain the cordial relationship between the two parties.
The state governor also thumbed up for President Tinubu for initiating various agricultural intervention programs since the inception of his administration, commending the initiative of the Feed the African initiative established by the African Development Bank and ensuring that the government will monitor all the inputs and interventions to ensure adequate use for the attainment of greater jigawa.
It should be recalled that Jigawa State was allocated 40,000 hectares of land for wheat farming under the initiative to enhance food security in Nigeria, where over 10,000 farmers are supported with agricultural inputs for effective farming.
In his speech, the leader of the AfDB delegation, Dr. Martings Fregnen, stated that the visit of his team is aimed at informing the governor of the activities of the bank to agree on areas of continued collaboration towards food security.
Dr. Fregnen notes that the national agricultural development scheme will be supported in the areas of irrigated land, demonstration to the farmers, financing, and providing opportunities for the young people for the development of the region.
https://farmersmanual.com/jigawa-receives-afdb-delegate-set-to-increase-whet-production-2/

The Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS) has set up an operations and enforcement department within the agency, which will oversee seamless operations and adhere to the guidelines of European Union (EU) exportation to avert product rejection and unnecessary seizures.
The Acting Comptroller General of NAQS, Godwin Sunday Audu, announced the establishment during the maiden meeting with station and zonal coordinators held at the headquarters in Abuja, where the agency promoted over one hundred officers to Assistant Superintendent of Quarantine I (ASQ I).
NAQS, as a regulatory agency under the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, was created to promote and regulate harmonization of plant, veterinary, and aquatic resources (fisheries) in connection with the import and export of agricultural products with a view to minimizing the risk to the agricultural economy, food safety, and the environment.
The agency, in collaboration with key stakeholders, undertakes protocols to control and prevent the introduction, establishment, and spread of animal and zoonotic diseases, as well as pests of plants and fisheries, including their products.
Audu disclosed that efforts are being made to adhere to the European Union (EU) requirements for the exportation of products, stating that the development will no doubt avert the imminent rejection of Nigerian products by EU countries.
The Quarantine Boss noted that adherence to the Act establishing the agency and also being conversant with international standards will go a long way in promoting the ease of doing business, while calling on the staff to rededicate themselves to the task of repositioning the agency to better serve the diverse stakeholders.
He assured the staff of his administration’s open-door policy, which will give room for innovative ideas, stressing that the development will contribute to growing the agency and adding that human capital development will be a priority for the service under his leadership.
https://farmersmanual.com/naqs-establishes-enforcement-department-to-implement-eu-exportation-guidelines-2/

The National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) has collaborated with Climate Action Africa (CAA) to address Nigeria’s vulnerability to the impacts of climate change in a shared commitment to setting a precedent for proactive and impactful measures in the face of global climate challenges.

The partnership was solidified with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding at the NCCC office in Abuja in the presence of representatives from both organizations, including Dr. Salisu Dahiru, Director General of NCCC; Grace Oluchi Mbah, Co-Founder and Executive Director of CAA; Michael Ivenso, Director of Energy, Transportation, and Infrastructure at NCCC; and others.

This collaboration precedes the highly anticipated Climate Action Africa Forum (CAAF24), scheduled to take place in Lagos, Nigeria, from June 17th to 19th, 2024.

CAAF24 is a global event that will bring together stakeholders from across the world to encourage collaboration, catalyze actionable solutions, and urge governments, businesses, and individuals to invest in climate-smart initiatives.

While commenting on the importance of the partnership, Dahiru noted that the collaboration with Climate Action Africa is a pivotal step towards building a climate-resilient Nigeria, adding that the aim of the joint efforts was to promptly address vulnerabilities and work towards sustainable solutions for the country.

He pointed out that the collaboration is necessary for the country because Nigeria faces significant challenges from extreme weather events such as droughts, floods, erosion, and rising sea levels. These risks particularly threaten sectors like agriculture, water resources, public health, and settlements.

According to the Executive Director of CAA, Grace Oluchi Mbah, Nigeria’s vulnerability to climate change necessitates immediate and collective action, explaining that the partnership aspires to harness the power of innovation, sustainable practices, policy dialogue, and community engagement to reshape Nigeria’s future and set a global example.
https://farmersmanual.com/nccc-partners-caa-to-address-climate-change-in-nigeria-2/

Jigawa Governor Alhaji Umar Namadi has disclosed the plans of the state toward agricultural development through the cultivation of 150,000 hectares of wheat next planting season to improve food security in the state and the county in general.
The governor made this known in Dutse when he received an audience from an Africa Development Bank (AfDB) delegation, noting that the only way to move people out of poverty is through the development of agriculture.
He pointed out that there are plans on the ground to expand the program to other crops for the betterment of citizens in 2025, while giving the assurance of the state’s government’s willingness to maintain the cordial relationship between the two parties.
The state governor also thumbed up for President Tinubu for initiating various agricultural intervention programs since the inception of his administration, commending the initiative of the Feed the African initiative established by the African Development Bank and ensuring that the government will monitor all the inputs and interventions to ensure adequate use for the attainment of greater jigawa.
It should be recalled that Jigawa State was allocated 40,000 hectares of land for wheat farming under the initiative to enhance food security in Nigeria, where over 10,000 farmers are supported with agricultural inputs for effective farming.
In his speech, the leader of the AfDB delegation, Dr. Martings Fregnen, stated that the visit of his team is aimed at informing the governor of the activities of the bank to agree on areas of continued collaboration towards food security.
Dr. Fregnen notes that the national agricultural development scheme will be supported in the areas of irrigated land, demonstration to the farmers, financing, and providing opportunities for the young people for the development of the region.
https://farmersmanual.com/jigawa-receives-afdb-delegate-set-to-increase-whet-production/