Niger State Targets 360,000 MT of Rice in Dry Season Farming Initiative

News in Brief:

-Niger State sets a target to harvest 360,000 metric tonnes of rice during the next dry season through a partnership with local communities.

-The project, led by Niger Food and Security Logistics Limited, aims to boost food security, create jobs, and enhance rural infrastructure across the state.

Niger State is setting its sights on an ambitious goal, harvesting 360,000 metric tonnes of rice in the upcoming dry season through a large-scale partnership with farming communities in Wushishi Local Government Area.

The initiative, anchored by Niger Food and Security Logistics Limited, involves a land lease agreement with local farmers represented by their district, village, and ward heads, a move that signals strong community inclusion and ownership.

A Transformative Step for Food Security and Youth Employment

Speaking on the development, the Chairman of Niger Foods Limited, Mr Sammy Adigun, described the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) as a transformative step for both the state and Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

Adigun explained that beyond increasing food production, the project would strengthen the entire agricultural value chain.

“This project is not just about producing rice; it’s about creating jobs, empowering youth, and driving community development,” he said.

According to him, the initiative would also deliver essential infrastructure, including rural roads, power supply, and schools, thereby improving the quality of life in the host communities.

Driving Food Sovereignty and Economic Growth

The dry season farming scheme aligns with Nigeria’s national goal of achieving food sovereignty and reducing dependence on imports. Adigun noted that by integrating local farmers into structured production systems, Niger State would not only boost food security but also stimulate rural economies and attract agribusiness investments.

Chairman of Wushishi Local Government Area, Alhaji Mohammed Yelwa, commended the state government and Niger Foods for initiating the project, pledging his administration’s full support to ensure its success.

Similarly, the District Heads of Akere and Zungeru expressed their communities’ readiness to cooperate fully.

“This project is a dream come true for our people one that will benefit not just Nigerlites, but Nigeria as a whole,” they said.