By Abdullahi Lukman
The National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, and Optimum Bank have launched a joint survey aimed at evaluating the current state of dry season farming in Nigeria.
The initiative, which seeks to establish a comprehensive baseline for future agricultural development, was officially kicked off with an inception meeting held at the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria.
The Dry Season Farming Baseline and Feasibility Survey, is to focus initially on the North Central Zone of the country, but with a broader goal of promoting dry season farming clusters across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The project is designed to provide key data and insights that are expected to guide the development of policies and investments in dry-season agricultural practices, with the ultimate aim of modernizing and expanding the nation’s irrigation systems.
During the launch event, Mohammed Abu Ibrahim, the Executive Secretary/CEO of NADF, emphasized the crucial role that data will play in driving strategic investments.
Represented by Mr. Gbemiga Oladele, the Head of the Investment Unit at NADF, Ibrahim underscored the importance of this initiative in shaping the future of dry season farming in Nigeria.
According to Ibrahim, the long-term vision for the project is to create a sustainable, large-scale irrigation system that will support dry-season farming across the country.
This, he said, will help increase agricultural productivity, empower local farmers, and reduce Nigeria’s reliance on food imports.
The baseline study is seen as an essential first step in laying the groundwork for transformative agricultural policies that will enhance food security, stimulate local economies, and boost Nigeria’s agricultural output.
It aligns with the government’s broader efforts to modernize the agricultural sector and ensure that farmers have access to the necessary tools and resources for success, particularly in areas that rely on irrigation for year round crop production.
By gathering accurate data, the survey is expected to provide insights into the challenges and opportunities within Nigeria’s dry season farming landscape.
This is to inform decisions on improving irrigation infrastructure, fostering innovation in farming techniques, and ultimately, driving sustainable agricultural practices across the country.
