Niger State ministry of agriculture unveils 2025 action plan

Dr Matthew Ahmed, Permanent Secretary of the ministry, disclosed this during a presentation of the ministry and its agencies end of 2024 report and 2025 actions plan in Minna.

The event also featured a send forth for Hajiya Maimuna Tanko, who recently retired as a Director of Produce and Paste Control as well as award presentation to outstanding staff.

Ahmed explained that the action plan was designed to enhance the productivity of farmers, improve food security, and promote economic growth.

“The plan includes monitoring and visitation to dry season sites, in-house staff training, and establishment of school gardens,” he said.

He outlined other activities to include quarterly nutrition activities, pre-season training for farmers, farmer data capturing, monthly technical review meetings, and the creation of agricultural equipment hiring centers.

He said the ministry would also train youths on drone technology and other smart agricultural activities, as well as distribute agro-inputs to farmers across the 25 area councils of the state.

He added that various projects and programmes would be implemented, such as the Green Field Day, Brown Field Day, and the National Agricultural Show.

Ahmed emphasized the importance of the action plan, saying it would help to drive the state’s agricultural sector forward and improve the lives of farmers and rural communities.

In the same vein, the ministry also unveiled its 2024 achievements, showcasing significant strides in transforming the state’s agricultural sector.

Presenting the achievement, Malam Ali Maikasuwa, Director of Agric Services, said the ministry implemented various initiatives to boost food security, employment, and economic growth.

He mentioned the initiatives to include procurement and distribution of agricultural inputs, and 100 trucks of fertiliser to farmers at a 20 per cent subsidy.

Maikasuwa added that the ministry collaborated with Niger Foods Logistic Company to acquire 1,000 tractors and mechanisation equipment worth over N34 billion.

He disclosed that 5,000 farmers received support under the National Agricultural Growth Scheme and Agro-Pocket NAGS-AP for dry season farming.

He said the ministry partnered with the Alliance for a Green Revolution (AGRA) and the Tourba Company of Morocco to enhance stakeholder coordination and facilitate carbon credit farming.

He added that the ministry also participated in various events, including the Africa Food Systems Forum in Kigali, the National Agricultural Show in Nassarwa State, and the Nutritious Food Fair in Minna.

In his remarks, Alhaji Musa Bawa-Bosso, the state Commissioner for Agriculture, commended the retired director for her dedication to work and meaningful contributions to the ministry.

He charged the staff of the ministry to remain committed to their duties, foster a spirit of teamwork, remain focused and honest in their dealings.

Highlight of the activities was the  honouring of  25 outstanding staff members with certificates of award and cash prizes for their exceptional performance, hard work, and dedication.

NAN / Foluke Ibitomi