Jigawa to lead Nigeria in wheat production – Governor Namadi
Governor Malam Umar Namadi has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to positioning Jigawa State as Nigeria’s top wheat producer, with a goal of achieving wheat self-sufficiency by 2030.
Speaking at the 2025 Wheat Green Field Day in Dabi, Ringim Local Government Area, the governor highlighted the state’s strides in wheat cultivation, noting that Jigawa had expanded its farming area from 55,000 hectares in the 2023/2024 season to 80,000 hectares in 2024/2025.
The event, organized in collaboration with the Flour Milling Association of Nigeria (FMAN), gathered wheat farmers, policymakers, and agricultural experts to assess progress and chart a path forward.
“Jigawa has emerged as a leading producer of wheat in Nigeria,” Namadi said. “This achievement underscores our commitment to food security, economic transformation, and inclusive growth for our farmers.”
He outlined an ambitious plan to cultivate 500,000 hectares of wheat by 2030, aligning with the state’s 12-Point Development Agenda and Agricultural Transformation Strategy. To achieve this, the state is investing in mechanization, youth engagement, and modern farming techniques.
As part of these efforts, Governor Namadi announced plans to launch the Jigawa Farm Mechanization Company, aimed at improving agricultural efficiency across the state. He revealed that 300 tractors, 60 combine harvesters, and other essential equipment had already been procured, with 30 young technicians trained in China to ensure effective maintenance.
The governor also assured farmers of continued support, including access to improved seed varieties, irrigation infrastructure, subsidized inputs, and extension services.
He acknowledged FMAN’s critical role in ensuring access to high-yield seeds and securing guaranteed offtake agreements for farmers.
“We will continue to strengthen our partnership with FMAN and other key stakeholders to build a sustainable and inclusive wheat supply chain,” he said, also appreciating the technical assistance provided by IDH in supporting the state’s wheat development strategy.
In his remarks, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security praised Jigawa for its leadership in wheat production, describing the state as a model for others.
“Jigawa continues to set the pace in agricultural development. The government’s proactive approach in preparing farmlands, distributing inputs, and implementing the African Development Bank’s National Agricultural Growth Scheme Agro-Pocket Programme is commendable,” the minister stated.
