Jigawa State Government in North West Nigeria, has taken a major step toward boosting Nigeria’s agricultural productivity with the signing of a landmark partnership between the state and the Africa Rice Centre (AfricaRice).
The collaboration, sealed in Bouaké, Côte d’Ivoire, is designed to accelerate rice production in Jigawa State while contributing significantly to the nation’s broader food security agenda.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by the Director General of the Jigawa State Agricultural Transformation Agency (JATA), Dr. Saifullahi Umar on behalf of Governor Umar Namadi and AfricaRice’s Director General, Dr. Baboucarr Manneh.
The agreement outlines a joint commitment to enhance rice cultivation, improve seed systems, and strengthen processing capabilities.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Governor Namadi said the partnership reflects his government’s resolve to modernize agriculture and position Jigawa as a key player in Nigeria’s rice revolution.
“This collaboration with AfricaRice is a testament to our commitment to agricultural renewal and economic prosperity.
We are determined to empower our farmers with the resources and knowledge required to unlock Jigawa’s potential as a leading rice hub,” he stated.
Key components of the partnership includes the Varietal Improvement and Seed Systems: Development and distribution of high-yield, climate-resilient rice varieties suitable for Nigeria’s farming environments.
Sustainable Production Technologies: Introduction of climate-smart practices to boost productivity and protect natural resources.
Post-Harvest Management and Value Addition: Measures to reduce losses, improve rice quality, and enhance competitiveness in domestic and international markets.
Capacity Development and Digital Agriculture: Training programmes for farmers and agricultural workers, alongside the deployment of digital tools to improve farm efficiency.
Dr. Saifullahi Umar described the agreement as a major milestone for Jigawa and a significant stride in Nigeria’s quest for rice self-sufficiency.
“This partnership will open doors to advanced technologies and research-driven innovations that will transform our approach to rice farming,” he said.
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In his remarks, AfricaRice’s Director General, Dr. Manneh, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting agricultural development across the continent.
“We are excited to partner with Jigawa State and leverage our expertise to promote innovations that will strengthen local rice production,” he said.
The collaboration is expected to kick off immediately, beginning with joint planning sessions and pilot trials across various ecological zones of Jigawa State.
AfricaRice, founded in 1971 and headquartered in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, is a leading pan-African research organisation dedicated to reducing poverty and improving food security through cutting-edge rice research and partnerships.
A press statement by the Governor’s Chief press Secretary Hamisu Gumel said, the partnership is widely seen as a boost not only for Jigawa State but also for Nigeria’s national drive to achieve sustainable food security and reduce dependence on rice imports.
Victoria Ibanga