FG distributes inputs to 2,000 farmers for dry season wheat farming in Niger state
From Our Reporter.
The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has launched a new initiative aimed at boosting wheat production in Nigeria, specifically targeting 2,000 farmers in Niger State for dry season farming.
According to Mr. Ishaku Buba, the National Project Officer of the National Agricultural Growth Scheme and Agro-Pocket (NAGS-AP), this initiative seeks to improve living conditions in the community and address the nation’s wheat production shortfall.
This effort is carried out in collaboration with SMK Nigeria Limited and forms part of the Federal Government’s broader strategy to enhance wheat production across the country. Buba, represented by Musaku Emmanuel from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, highlighted that the scheme provides participating farmers with NPK and Urea fertilizers, as well as certified and improved wheat seeds.
The program is targeting 2,000 farmers organized into two clusters, covering a total of 2,000 hectares of land in the Garafini and Swashi communities of the Borgu Local Government Area. The farmers will employ mechanized farming methods, which are expected to significantly boost their productivity.
Alhaji Adamu Jibril, the District Head of Garafini and also a wheat farmer, expressed his gratitude for this initiative. “This program aims to improve the livelihoods of my community, particularly by alleviating poverty and fostering a sustainable economy,” he said.
Samaila Isamil, another participant and farmer with SMK Nigeria Limited, commended the Federal Government and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security for their support. “With modern techniques, we have transitioned from traditional to mechanized farming, utilizing tractors and planters to enhance our productivity,” he explained.
Isamil noted the initiative’s positive impact on crop yields: “Previously, we harvested half a tonne per hectare, but now we can achieve three tonnes per hectare, equating to around 30 bags of wheat.”
This initiative is part of the Federal Government’s efforts to bolster agricultural production and reduce reliance on imported wheat. The NAGS-AP project is anticipated to not only improve agricultural productivity but also stimulate economic growth and provide employment opportunities for young people in the area.
The District Head of Garafini reiterated that this initiative will enhance the livelihoods of his community, particularly those facing poverty, and contribute to the creation of a sustainable economy. The NAGS-AP project plays a crucial role in the Federal Government’s agenda to strengthen agricultural production and lessen dependence on imported wheat.
