Jigawa Govt, Côte d’Ivoire-based Center sign MoU To Boost Rice Production
Jigawa State Government and Africa Rice Center based in Bouaké, Côte d’Ivoire, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to boost rice production in the state.
Governor Umar Namadi who led the state delegation, said discussion with the leadership of Africa Rice Center led to formal agreement “on a partnership that will reshape the future of rice production in our state.
“We signed an MoU that covers several areas, from developing better, high-yield rice varieties to improving our farming methods, cutting post-harvest losses, and giving our farmers the kind of hands-on training that makes a real difference in the field.
“This is not just another agreement; it’s a big step toward the kind of modern, productive agriculture we’ve been working hard to build.”
According to the governor, Jigawa has what it takes to stand out in rice production.
“This new partnership simply puts us closer to making that a reality. What matters most is that, our farmers get real support — practical knowledge, better seeds, and the kind of tools that make their work easier and more rewarding. Working with AfricaRice gives us that chance,” Namadi stated.
He appreciated the head of Africa Rice Center, Dr. Baboucarr Manneh and his team for the great interest in working together to support rice farmers in Jigawa State.
The governor assured that with the signing of the agreement, the state would “get straight to work on the next steps so that activities can begin on the ground without delay”.
Namadi said his target is to build a stronger, more food-secure Jigawa State.
The Syndicate reports that Jigawa State currently cultivates 200,000 hectares of rice with a plan to expand it to 500,000 by 2030. It’s long term plan is to cultivate 1,2million hectares and produce up to 3.5 million tonnes of rice annually, about 50 percent of Nigeria’s annual rice requirement.
