62 Farmers Receive Training and Empowerment Support to Retrain 9 Each in Jakadan Noma–Sakata Europe Programme
By Rashida Abdul Rahman
The Jakadan Noma Foundation, led by Engr. Bashir Khalil Tanko, has partnered with Sakata Vegetable Europe SAS to launch a specialized training programme for women and youth farmers in Paikoro and Bosso Local Government Areas of Niger State. The initiative has empowered over 62 farmers with modern vegetable production skills and provided them with essential farm inputs, with each participant expected to retrain at nine others within their communities.
Engr. Tanko noted that the programme aims to strengthen agricultural knowledge by equipping participants with advanced techniques that improve vegetable production, productivity, and profitability. He added that prioritizing women and young farmers will enhance inclusive participation and expand the state’s agricultural value chain.
The training was facilitated by Dr. Hadiza Yaro, West Africa Sales Manager of Sakata Vegetable Europe SAS, who delivered a robust curriculum covering improved seed selection, nursery establishment, soil preparation, irrigation management, pest and disease control, and post-harvest handling. Participants also received guidance on climate smart farming practices designed to reduce losses, increase yields, and support sustainable year-round production.
She emphasized hands-on demonstrations to help farmers effectively apply the new techniques.
Niger Foods supported the initiative with the donation of 100 seed trays, expected to help raise about 10,500 seedlings for dry-season pepper farming. After the classroom sessions, participants visited the Tagwai Dam farm for practical field experience and live demonstrations.
The programme is expected to significantly boost local vegetable production and contribute to broader agricultural development efforts across Niger State.
One of the participants, Joyce Frank, commended the initiative and pledged to step down the knowledge gained to other farmers within her community.
