Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has revived the National Programme for Food Security (NPFS) after almost three decades, marking a significant step in Kwara State’s efforts to strengthen food systems and support farmers.

The announcement was made by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr Afees Abolore Alabi, during the 3rd Quarter Inter-Ministerial Press Briefing organised by the Ministry of Communications.

Dr Alabi said the project, co-funded by the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), represents a turning point in the government’s plan to modernise the agricultural sector and empower rural communities. 

He described the move as one that “will reposition the state’s agricultural landscape for inclusive growth and productivity.”

The renewed NPFS will focus on irrigation infrastructure, farmer training, value chain development, and better access to credit and markets. 

These key interventions, he said, fit into the AbdulRazaq administration’s vision of building “a self-sustaining agricultural economy that guarantees food availability and supports smallholder farmers.”

According to the Commissioner, the revitalised programme will benefit thousands of smallholder farmers through improved yields, access to irrigation systems, and more market opportunities. 

The initiative will boost productivity, reduce food shortages, and enhance income for farmers across Kwara.

Dr Alabi highlighted the state’s progress in farmer empowerment, mechanisation, and value chain expansion. 

The government recently distributed 16 new tractors and essential farm inputs, including maize, rice, soybean seeds, fertilisers, herbicides, and knapsack sprayers across all 16 local government areas. 

This addition to the 32 tractors distributed earlier will further drive cluster-based farming and stronger cooperative linkages aimed at improving efficiency and rural livelihoods.

He said the Ministry is also deepening partnerships with key agricultural players. These include collaboration with the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN) to improve the rice value chain and a collaboration with Olam Group to make Kwara a major hub for soybean production and processing. 

There are also ongoing collaborations with universities and research institutions to encourage student-led agribusiness initiatives, ensuring that young people actively advance modern agriculture.

Commending Governor AbdulRazaq’s leadership, Dr Alabi said, “His foresight continues to attract critical development partnerships to Kwara State.”

He added that these milestones show the government’s strong commitment to building a resilient agricultural sector that promotes inclusive growth and food security. 

Dr Alabi concluded that the State Government will continue to monitor progress, engage stakeholders, and invest in technology-driven agriculture to sustain the gains achieved so far.

“The AbdulRazaq administration remains dedicated to consolidating progress and unlocking new frontiers of growth in the sector,” he assured.

Source: Kwara State Govt