Niger State willing to spearhead Federal Government’s 500,000-hectare agricultural project

The Niger State Government has enthusiastically volunteered to lead the way in piloting the Federal Government’s ambitious 500,000 hectares agricultural production initiative, as highlighted in President Bola Tinubu’s New Year message. Governor Mohammed Umar Bago shared this commitment following a meeting with President Tinubu in Abuja, emphasizing Niger’s current status as a frontrunner in the President’s food security initiative.

Governor Bago disclosed that Niger State has already initiated the implementation of a substantial 250,000 hectares of dry-season farming, aligning with the overarching goals of the federal government’s agricultural plans. During the meeting, the governor discussed the ongoing efforts in the agricultural sector and highlighted the state’s readiness to be a pilot for the proposed 500,000-hectare project.

In addressing the purpose of his visit, Governor Bago stated, “We have already signed an agreement with some companies for off-take and just to keep him up to speed with what we are doing in agriculture.” He further pointed out that President Tinubu’s New Year speech underscored the emphasis on agriculture and the monumental 500,000 hectares the government aims to cultivate in 2024.

Governor Bago expressed the state’s ambition to match the federal government’s commitment by contributing an additional 500,000 hectares. This proactive stance by Niger State aligns with the broader vision of bolstering agriculture in Nigeria.

Addressing the issue of farmers displaced by insecurity in the state, the governor provided reassurance by stating, “They are already back on their farms,” indicating progress in overcoming challenges related to agricultural activities in the region.