The Jigawa State Government in North West Nigeria, has launched the distribution of Bio-fortified millet and maize seeds to 30,000 small holder farmers, marking a major step in its efforts to improve nutrition and build climate-resilient agriculture across the state.
Governor Malam Umar Namadi led the official rollout in Dutse, describing the initiative as both an agricultural and public health intervention.
He said, the effort is part of his administration’s broader 12-point agenda, which emphasizes sustainable development and food security.
“This program is not just about farming,” Governor Namadi said. “It’s about protecting the health of our people and the environment. These seeds will help our farmers grow crops that are not only more resilient to climate change but also richer in vital nutrients.”
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The biofortified millet and maize varieties are enhanced with key nutrients such as iron, vitamin A, and zinc—nutrients critical in the fight against malnutrition, especially among children.
The seeds are also engineered to thrive in challenging weather conditions, offering a solution to growing concerns about food production in the face of climate change.
The program is being implemented with support from HarvestPlus and the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), in collaboration with key government agencies.
Governor Namadi emphasized that the seed distribution is just one part of a larger agricultural transformation agenda.
He noted that, his administration has already recruited 1,435 extension workers, supported over 40,000 rice and wheat farmers with input financing, and launched reforms in farm mechanization through the establishment of the Agricultural Transformation Agency and the Jigawa Farm Mechanization Service Company.
Additionally, the state is setting up 60 Farm Service Centers and is preparing to establish a dedicated Ministry of Livestock to further boost agricultural productivity.
Country Manager for HarvestPlus Nigeria, Yusuf Dollar Fu’ad, praised the initiative, highlighting how climate change is diminishing the nutritional value of traditional crops.
“This is why it’s essential to invest in biofortified seeds that can provide both resilience and nutrition,” he said.
A press statement by the Governor’s Chief press Secretary Hamisu Gumel said, as part of the rollout, extension workers and farmers will receive training to ensure the effective use of the improved seed varieties, ensuring long-term benefits for communities across Jigawa.