Niger Foods Pledges Support to Bago Ruga Ruga Pepper Farmers
By Rashidat AbdulRahman, Information Officer
In a significant step towards enhancing agricultural productivity among nomadic communities, Niger Foods Security System and Logistics Company Limited welcomed a delegation from the Bago Ruga Ruga Pepper Farm Group on Tuesday. Led by Alhaji Hassan Shiroro, Coordinator of the group and Wakilin Fulani of the Minna Emirate, the delegation, which included women and youth farmers, visited the company’s office in Minna to showcase their successful pepper harvest and express their gratitude to Chairman Mr. Sammy Adigun.
The visit aimed not only to thank Niger Foods for its support but also to explore deeper integration of the Bago Ruga group into the company’s agricultural programs.
In a response to the delegation, Mr. Adigun emphasized Niger Foods’ commitment to enhancing the livelihoods of nomadic communities across Niger State.
He outlined the company’s initiatives aimed at improving crop and pasture production, which will include support for various agricultural products such as grains, peppers, and vegetables, alongside sustainable livestock farming practices.
Mr. Adigun reassured the farmers that Niger Foods would continue to provide essential support through financing for seeds, fertilizers, and renewable irrigation systems, ensuring that farming is viable year-round.
Furthermore, he highlighted plans to offer training in silage production and storage, which will boost livestock productivity within these communities.
In a notable commitment to inclusivity, Mr. Adigun stated that the Bago Ruga Ruga Pepper Farm Group would be fully integrated into Niger Foods’ agricultural value chain programs.
“The nomadic pastoralist communities welcome innovations and investments, and we will ensure that no one is left behind,” he remarked, underlining the importance of equitable development.
This engagement is a testament to Niger Foods’ model of inclusive agricultural transformation, emphasizing the empowerment of women and youth in farming. By collaborating with organized groups such as the Ruga Ruga farmers, the company is positioning itself to build a robust network of smallholder farmers equipped with access to modern technologies, markets, and sustainable financing systems.
In an interview, Faridah Ladan, Project Coordinator for Niger Foods, expressed her admiration for the women actively involved in the initiative.
She encouraged greater participation by women, highlighting the opportunities available for growth and development within the agricultural sector.
Hauwa Mohammed, Assistant Woman Leader of the Bago Ruga Ruga group, echoed the sentiment, lauding Niger Foods and the Niger State Government for establishing a platform that empowers women and fosters their success throughout the state.
As Niger Foods continues to champion sustainable agricultural practices, its collaboration with the Bago Ruga Ruga Pepper Farmers illustrates a promising future for agricultural innovation and community empowerment in Niger State.
