Jigawa Govt Empowers 58,000 Dry Season Rice Farmers
By: Ahmed Aminu, Dutse
Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi has supported 58, 000 dry season rice farmers with subsidised farming inputs to meet the state’s target of cultivating up to 200,000 hectares in the 2025 irrigation season.
The governor made the disclosure at the launching of the 2025 dry season rice production programme in Jura village, Auyo Local government area of the state.
Namadi said the subsidised items include 20,000 solar and gasoline water pumping machines, improved rice seeds, fertilizer, herbicide and pesticide.
He warned the beneficiaries against selling the items, and assured that the government would continue to support dry season farmers to meet the target of cultivating up to 1.5 million hectares in the state.
Namadi said while the government would push the production from 200,000 to 500,000 hectares by 2030, “our hope is to increase the dry season rice production from current 200, 000 hectares ultimately to cultivate 1.2 million hectares. In the rainy season farming the state would produce 3.6 million metric tones of rice”.
He stated that the move is part of the present administration’s commitment to improve agricultural production and enhance food security.
“We have established an ambitious target of 3.6 million metric tonnes of annual rice production, and I am confident that with diligent farmers, committed stakeholders, and supportive partners, this goal can be achieved.
“For the current dry season alone, over 58,500 farmers across 27 localities will cultivate more than 130,000 hectares using improved seed varieties, modern cultivation techniques including fertilization, weed control, and irrigation.
“This initiative aims not simply for increased output but complete transformation.”
He also announced plans to fully mechanised agricultural practices in the state.
“Through the Rice Value Chain Development project, we will roll out full mechanization, processing hub development, and improved access to local and global markets.
“We pledge to transform Jigawa into Nigeria’s leading rice producer and a vibrant agribusiness and rural prosperity center.”
Namadi, therefore, urged farmers to make the most of the opportunity.
“You have my assurance that this administration will sustain the necessary backing and policies for success.
“Working together, we will build a stronger, self-reliant Jigawa powered by agricultural growth and lasting community development.”
