Niger State Ministry of Agriculture Releases 2025 Action Plan
From Our Correspondent.
The Niger State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has unveiled its action plan and cropping calendar for 2025. This comprehensive plan outlines various activities and programs aimed at enhancing agricultural production in the state.
Dr. Matthew Ahmed, the Permanent Secretary of the Niger State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, presented the ministry’s end-of-year report along with the 2025 action plan in Minna. The event also served as a farewell to Hajiya Mainiuna Tanko, who recently retired as the Director of Produce and Paste Control within the ministry.
Dr. Ahmed explained that the action plan is designed to improve farmer productivity, enhance food security, and promote economic growth. Key components of the plan include monitoring and visiting dry season farming sites, conducting in-house staff training, and establishing school gardens.
Additional activities involve quarterly nutrition initiatives, pre-season training for farmers, capturing farmer data, and holding monthly technical review meetings. The ministry also plans to train youths in drone technology and other innovative agricultural practices. Furthermore, agro-inputs will be distributed to farmers across all 25 local government areas in the state.
Several projects will be implemented, including the Green Field Day, Brown Field Day, and the National Agricultural Show. Dr. Ahmed emphasized the importance of this action plan, stating that it will drive the agricultural sector in the state forward.
The ministry also highlighted its accomplishments in 2024, showcasing significant progress in transforming the agricultural landscape. Malam Ali Maikasuwa, the Director of Agricultural Services, presented these achievements, which focus on boosting food security, creating employment opportunities, and fostering economic growth. Initiatives in this regard include the procurement and distribution of 100 trucks of fertilizer to farmers at a 20% subsidy rate.
The ministry collaborated with the Niger Foods Logistic Company to acquire 1,000 tractors and mechanization equipment valued at over N34 billion. Alhaji Musa Salihu Bawa Bosso, the Commissioner of Agriculture in Niger State, praised the retired director for her commitment to her work and her significant contributions to the ministry’s development.
During the event, the ministry recognized 25 outstanding staff members with certificates and cash prizes for their exceptional performance, hard work, and dedication to duty.