By George George Idowu
All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Niger State Chapter, has embarked on a massive initiative to mobilize one million smallholder farmers across the state for the 2024 wet season farming.
The ambitious project aims to cultivate 10 different cash and food crops with an expected output of 4 million metric tons.
This was disclosed during the quarterly meeting of AFAN with local government coordinators and stakeholders in Minna, on Wednesday.
Alhaji Shehu Galadima, the AFAN Chairman of Niger State Chapter, announced the strategic plan which includes focusing on crops like rice, maize, soybeans, millet, sorghum, cowpea, sesame, cassava, and yam.
Galadima emphasized the pivotal role of the state government, particularly through the Ministry of Agriculture and Niger Foods Ltd, in supporting smallholder farmers with essential resources and expertise to ensure a successful harvest and boost economic prosperity.
Addressing concerns about security, the AFAN Chairman reassured farmers that the government is committed to providing a safe environment for agricultural activities and the overall well-being of citizens.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Alhaji Musa Bawa Bosso, underscored the significance of the meeting and highlighted the government’s dedication to achieving food security and sufficiency.
He announced plans for comprehensive training sessions to equip cluster group leaders with modern farming techniques to enhance productivity.
Furthermore, Bosso disclosed that the administration led by Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has laid out extensive agricultural programs aimed at benefiting farmers across the state.
One such initiative involves training 2,500 farmers from selected local government areas on Carbon Credit, aligning with global agricultural practices.
Offering assurance from Niger Foods Ltd, Muhammad Danjuma, the Community Engagement Officer, pledged continued support for smallholder farmers, particularly in terms of providing essential farm inputs.
The concerted efforts of AFAN and the collaborative approach with government agencies and private sector partners signal a proactive stride towards achieving sustainable food production and economic empowerment in Niger State.