By Mohammed Abubakar Dutse
The Jigawa State Governor, Umar Namadi, has flagged off the 2025 dry season rice farming programme with a warning to farmers against diverting subsidized agricultural inputs provided by the government across the state.
The launching ceremony which took place in Jura village in Auyo local government, secretariat also coincided with the unveiling of the Rice value chain development programme
The programme is under the Jigawa e-Inputs Voucher System, (JiVS), an innovative digital platform designed to streamline the process of agricultural inputs allocation and disbursement aimed at ensuring transparency, efficiency and accountability in the distribution of farming inputs to farmers across the state.
The governor emphasized that the dual event underscores our administration’s dedication to food security, agricultural productivity, and farmer empowerment initiatives.
Namadi maintained that anyone found diverting these inputs would face severe punishment, saying, “This move is part of the government’s efforts at developing agriculture and ensure food security in the state.”
“Over 55,000 farmers are expected to benefit from the program, Namadi stated.
He, however, disclosed that the Jigawa State Government has purchased 360 tons of rice seeds and 70 rice harvesters to support farmers.
Additionally, the governor explained that in less than two years of his administration, about 300 motorcycles were distributed to agricultural extension workers to enhance awareness and extension services among farmers across the 27 LGAs in the state.
Namadi pledged to monitor the activities of the supported farmers in Auyo LG and other parts of the state to ensure that the subsidized inputs are used effectively.
“We will keep a close eye on the activities of our farmers to prevent diversion and ensure the success of the program,” he said.
“We have established an ambitious target of 3.6 million metric tonnes of annual rice production, and I am confident that with diligent farmers, committed stakeholders, and supportive partners, this goal can be achieved.
“For the current dry season alone, over 58,500 farmers across 27 localities will cultivate more than 130,000 hectares using improved seed varieties, modern cultivation techniques including fertilization, weed control, and irrigation.
‘This initiative aims not simply for increased output but complete transformation. Through the Rice Value Chain Development project, we will roll out full mechanization, processing hub development, and improved access to local and global markets.
“We pledge to transform Jigawa into Nigeria’s leading rice producer and a vibrant agribusiness and rural prosperity center.
“As we advance, I urge all farmers to make the most of this opportunity. You have my assurance that this administration will sustain the necessary backing and policies for success.
“Working together, we will build a stronger, self-reliant Jigawa powered by agricultural growth and lasting community development.”
The the state commissioner for Agriculture, Muttaka Namadi, stated that the present administration in the state has consistently provided subsidized inputs and supported farmers in the state with the solid aims to increase productivity and improve the livelihoods of farmers.
He also said the launch of the 2025 Rice Farming Programe marks a significant milestone in the state’s agricultural development journey.
“With the government’s continued support, farmers are poised to increase their productivity and contribute to the nation’s food security,” the commissioner stressed further.
The Technical Adviser on Agriculture to the governor, Dr. Saifullahi Umar, highlighted the importance of the programme in boosting agricultural productivity and food security.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting farmers and ensuring the success of the programme.
