The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has launched a transformative initiative to enhance wheat production in Nigeria. According to Mr. Ishaku Baba, the National Project Officer for the National Agricultural Growth Scheme and Agro-Pocket (NAGS-AP), the Empowerment is designed to strengthen the living conditions of rural communities. Represented by Musaku Emmanuel of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Baba emphasised that the scheme is part of the government’s strategic effort to make the country self-sufficient in wheat production. The program collaborates with SMK Nigeria Limited, providing farmers with essential inputs such as NPK and Urea fertilisers and certified and improved wheat seeds.
This ambitious program focuses on supporting 2,000 agriculturists in Niger State through dry-season farming, a key step in addressing the shortfall of wheat production in the country. This will enhance agricultural productivity, improve livelihoods, and reduce dependence on imported wheat by equipping agriculturists with modern farming inputs and techniques. It also targets two major farming clusters in the Garafini and Swashi communities of the Borgu Local Government Area, ranging in 2,000 hectares of land. Changing traditional to mechanised farming methods has been a game-changer for the participating farmers.
Mechanised farming to transform agricultural productivity.
Using tractors and planters, the agriculturists have reported remarkable improvements in productivity. Previously, they achieved half a tonne per hectare; now, they harvest up to three tonnes per hectare, translating to 30 bags of wheat. Samaila Ismail, a Farmer with SMK Nigeria Limited, commended the government for introducing modern agriculture techniques. He noted that this transition has enhanced their productivity, turning what was once a labour-intensive and low-yield endeavour into a viable and profitable enterprise. The initiative, he added, has set a benchmark for others to adopt its cultivation as a sustainable economic activity.
On his part, the District Head of Garafini, Alhaji Adamu Jibril, expressed his gratitude for the program, emphasising its potential to improve the livelihoods of his community members. As a wheat farmer, he lauded the government’s efforts to empower rural agriculturists and create a sustainable local economy. He emphasised that the scheme not only addresses food Security but also alleviates many households out of poverty. Meanwhile, the benefits of the program extend beyond immediate economic gains. By creating employment opportunities for the youth in the area, the project has become a catalyst for social and economic development.
Nigeria aims for self-sufficiency in wheat production.
Also, the improved Productivity and mechanised agriculture methods inspire a new generation of farmers, setting a foundation for long-term agricultural sustainability. This initiative is critical to the Federal Government’s agricultural strategy. The region’s dependence on goods imports contributes to economic vulnerabilities, so stabilising domestic production is a priority. The National Agricultural Growth Scheme and Agro-Pocket project is expected to reduce the country’s reliance on foreign wheat, promoting food security and economic independence. By aligning with national goals, the program has introduced advanced farming techniques and promoted using high-quality inputs to achieve higher yields.
Farmers are now better positioned to meet local demand, contributing to a reduction in importation costs and strengthening the nation’s agricultural sector. The success of this initiative underscores the importance of targeted interventions in the agricultural sector. They can achieve remarkable results with proper support and resources, transforming their livelihoods and the entire agricultural system. Their collaboration demonstrates the effectiveness of public-private partnerships in driving sustainable development. Farmers participating in the program have expressed optimism about its long-term impact.
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Lastly, the transition to mechanised farming has increased their yields and reduced the physical strain associated with traditional farming methods. By modernising agriculture, the initiative is laying the foundation for a more resilient and self-reliant agricultural Economy in the country. This initiative in Niger State is a beacon of hope for rural communities and a testament to what can be achieved when Innovation meets determination. As the program unfolds, it is expected to inspire similar projects across other states, further solidifying the country’s position as a leader in agricultural transformation.