Jigawa State Governor, Umar Namadi, has recently unveiled a significant subsidy program aimed at bolstering the local wheat farming sector. Under this initiative, the state government is set to absorb 75 percent of the expenses associated with agricultural inputs. The key goal of the program is to enhance wheat production as part of a broader strategy to promote food self-sufficiency in Nigeria. During an exclusive interview that followed the West and Central Africa Development Network Wheat second regional summit in Abuja, Governor Namadi articulated Jigawa State’s dedication to expanding its wheat cultivation and contributing positively to the nation’s agricultural landscape.
Highlighting a strategic partnership with the African Development Bank and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Namadi disclosed that Nigeria has been allocated 120,000 hectares for wheat farming, out of which 40,000 hectares is specifically designated for Jigawa State. He expressed his commitment to cultivating this allocation and taking full responsibility for maximizing its potential. Moreover, through additional collaborations with the Flour Milling Association of Nigeria, an extra 5,000 hectares has been earmarked for cultivation. Farmers who did not qualify for the subsidy program contributed to this effort by cultivating 10,000 hectares, culminating in a total of 55,000 hectares committed to wheat farming throughout the state.
The governor emphasized that the subsidy program significantly lightens the financial load on local farmers, thereby encouraging greater participation in wheat production. He elaborated that, supported by the federal government’s 50 percent subsidy, the state has opted to enhance this benefit further, covering an additional 75 percent of the remaining costs. Consequently, farmers are only required to pay 25 percent of the total input costs, which has motivated a notable increase in engagement within the agricultural sector. Namadi proudly stated that the outcomes have been promising, signifying the effectiveness of the subsidy initiative in boosting wheat cultivation among farmers.
Looking ahead, Governor Namadi expressed his ambitious goal of scaling wheat production to 100,000 hectares in the near future, demonstrating a proactive vision for the state’s agricultural growth. He mentioned plans to double the state’s collaboration with the Flour Milling Association to facilitate this expansion, aiming to significantly increase the land devoted to wheat cultivation in Jigawa State. This aspiration not only reflects a commitment to agricultural productivity but also underscores the importance of strategic partnerships in achieving sustainable agricultural development.
In addition to the financial subsidies, the governor discussed ongoing efforts to enhance the availability of quality seeds, which is crucial for successful wheat farming. He revealed that the state’s Ministry of Agriculture has imported seeds from Mexico while also prioritizing local seed production initiatives. By encouraging local youth to participate in seed production, the government aims to create a thriving agricultural sector that delivers economic benefits to the community, emphasizing that seed production is highly lucrative due to its premium pricing.
Through these progressive initiatives, Jigawa State is positioning itself to become a leader in wheat production within Nigeria. By prioritizing food self-sufficiency and strengthening local agriculture, the state government is not only paving the way for economic growth but also making significant strides towards enhancing the well-being of its citizens. The overarching vision of the governor’s plans aligns with broader national goals of ensuring food security and developing a robust agricultural framework that can support the country’s growing population.
