The African Development Bank (AfDB) has announced its intention to extend a substantial $134 million loan to Nigeria. This funding forms a crucial part of the National Agricultural Growth Scheme and AgroPocket (NAGS-AP) Project, with a focus on bolstering the nation’s agricultural capabilities.
Abubakar Kyari, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, revealed this initiative in Jigawa State while inaugurating this year’s Wheat dry season farming. He expressed confidence that this financial infusion would lead to at least a 20% increase in crop yield compared to the previous year. The enhanced production will include not only staples like rice, maize, cassava, and wheat but also soybeans and sorghum in the upcoming wet season.
Kyari acknowledged the challenges ahead but remained optimistic about overcoming them through innovative approaches, particularly in utilising Information and Communication Technology (ICT). This includes focusing on proven irrigated farm clusters, deploying verified farmer data, and connecting farmers to AgroDealer Redemption Centres.
According to a report by The Guardian, Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa expressed his gratitude for the federal government’s support and the significant impact this project would have on the state’s farmers. “This initiative is set to change the lives of more than 42,000 farmers,” he stated, urging them to adhere to best practices to ensure a successful harvest.
In related developments, Nicolas Lang, the Swiss Ambassador to Nigeria, has called on Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State to prioritise investments in the education, agriculture, and health sectors. Lang emphasized the crucial role of education in community development and livelihood recovery. He commended the Yobe government’s commitment to improving education through teacher training initiatives.
Lang assured the Swiss government’s continued support to the conflict-affected states of Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe in North-East Nigeria. He acknowledged past challenges in accessing these areas and pledged future focus on education, agriculture, and health in collaboration with the state government and local communities.
Governor Buni informed Lang about the ongoing efforts to resettle Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), except in Malundunari, recently affected by Boko Haram. The state government is working with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to facilitate the return of IDPs to their communities. Buni highlighted the need for additional support in agriculture to enhance farming and livestock production, thereby improving livelihoods and curbing rural-urban migration.
Lang reiterated the Swiss government’s commitment to supporting the North-Eastern states in overcoming conflict impacts and improving living conditions for the people.
