REPORT ON THE GREEN FIELD DAY IN JIGAWA STATE

I had the honor of accompanying the Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security to Jigawa State for the Green Field Day, a landmark event hosted by His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Jigawa State in collaboration with the United Nations World Food Programme (UNWFP) and the African Development Bank (AfDB).

This initiative highlights the transformative impact of the outgrowers scheme, aimed at enhancing all-year-round wheat production in Northern Nigeria, particularly in Jigawa State.

The visit was a significant milestone in reaffirming President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to agricultural transformation and food security, while also showcasing the unwavering dedication of the Minister of Agriculture and the Governor of Jigawa State in fostering economic growth through sustainable agriculture.

Jigawa State’s Agricultural TransformationJigawa State has become a model for wheat production in Nigeria, achieving remarkable success through strategic public-private partnerships and development-driven policies.

Under the leadership of the state governor, wheat cultivation has expanded from 55,000 hectares in the last cycle to 85,000 hectares, marking a significant improvement.

This progress is a direct result of:Government-led initiatives that encourage large-scale farming and infrastructural development.

Partnerships with private sector stakeholders, such as the Flour Mills Association of Nigeria (FMAN), which provides market access and investment in the wheat value chain.

Support from international development partners, including UNWFP and AfDB, which offer funding, technical expertise, and farmer support programs.

The Green Field Day provided an opportunity to witness firsthand the impact of these initiatives and engage with local farmers, agribusiness leaders, and development partners.

Visit Highlights and Stakeholder EngagementsThe delegation made a stop at Yakasawa Village, where farmers demonstrated innovative farming techniques and shared testimonials on the positive changes they have experienced through the program.

We later proceeded to Debi, the venue of the main event, which was attended by key stakeholders, including:

Representatives of the UN World Food Programme (UNWFP)Officials from the African Development Bank (AfDB)Leadership of the Flour Mills Association of Nigeria (FMAN)Farmers’ cooperatives and agribusiness investorsFederal Government’s Support and Minister’s AddressDuring his speech, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security commended Jigawa State’s leadership, farmers, and private-sector partners for their dedication to boosting wheat production.

He emphasized the Federal Government’s commitment to agricultural growth and announced a ₦5 billion donation of farming equipment to the state. This investment is expected to:Enhance mechanization and increase productivity.

Support outgrowers with modern tools for efficient year-round farming.Strengthen the wheat value chain to improve supply and reduce reliance on imports.

Additionally, the Minister urged retailers and distributors across Nigeria to reflect the reduction in farm produce prices in their retail pricing.

He specifically called for lower prices in the confectionery sector, citing the significant drop in the costs of flour and spaghetti, which should translate to affordability for consumers. Key Takeaways and Policy Implications

1. Jigawa State is leading the way in wheat production, demonstrating that agriculture-led development is achievable through strategic partnerships and government support.

2. The Federal Government remains committed to agricultural reforms and mechanization, as seen in the ₦5 billion equipment donation.

3. Retailers and producers must play their part in ensuring that Nigerians benefit from reduced food prices, thereby supporting economic stability and consumer well-being.

4. Public-private collaboration is essential to achieving food security and sustainability, with development agencies playing a crucial role in driving investment and innovation.

The Green Field Day in Jigawa State was a resounding success, reinforcing the Federal Government’s agricultural agenda and highlighting the remarkable progress in wheat cultivation driven by the state governor, private investors, and development partners.

This years Green Field day has reaffirmed the administration’s unwavering commitment to sustainable agriculture, food security, and economic prosperity.

The progress witnessed in Jigawa State is a testament to what can be achieved through visionary leadership, policy continuity, and multi-sector collaboration.

Moving forward, we must scale these successes across the nation, ensuring that agriculture remains a key pillar of Nigeria’s economic growth and national development.