The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS), has invested over N200 billion in interventions to support farmers nationwide, according to Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security.

Kyari disclosed this recently in Abuja during a courtesy visit from a Gambian delegation led by Dembal Sabally, their Minister of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Security.

Kyari commended the Government of Gambia for seeking to partner with Nigeria to improve food production and economic growth.

He noted that Nigeria’s journey to food sufficiency had been challenging, but the current administration had made significant strides.

The Minister highlighted the Government’s efforts in boosting agricultural productivity, including “The distribution of 2.15 million bags of free fertilisers to farmers”, emphasising the importance of mechanisation in agriculture to make it more attractive to youths.

Nigeria’s progress in wheat production was also noted. The country now produces 500 metric tons of wheat, up from importing seeds in 2023.

The Minister attributed this success to the development of local wheat varieties through research institutes and agencies under the Ministry.

However, Kyari acknowledged Nigeria’s rice production challenges, including affordability and availability.

He stressed the benefits of the out-grower scheme, which provides small-scale farmers with access to financing and has transformed agriculture.

Sabally, the Gambian Minister, expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s support and shared Gambia’s struggles with rice insufficiency, importing over 80% of its rice.

Sabally’s team visited Kebbi State to study Nigeria’s rice cultivation, aiming to replicate these processes in Gambia. 

He sought Nigeria’s collaboration, specifically requesting a Rice Ambassador to help replicate the out-grower scheme and rice production methods. 

This initiative is crucial for Gambia to achieve rice self-sufficiency.

Source: BusinessDay