Boluwatife Adedokun
The Jigawa State Government has issued a stern warning against the sale or diversion of agricultural inputs meant for the 2025 rice dry season farming programme, vowing to sanction anyone found culpable.
Governor Umar Namadi gave the warning on Saturday while launching the programme in Jura village, Auyo Local Government Area.
Namadi revealed that over 58,000 farmers across the state will benefit from subsidized agricultural inputs under the scheme, designed to boost rice production and strengthen food security in the state.
“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,” the governor said.
He explained that during the current dry season alone, more than 58,500 farmers in 27 local governments will cultivate over 130,000 hectares using improved seed varieties and modern farming methods, including fertilization, weed control, and irrigation.
Governor Namadi also highlighted the government’s broader ambition through the Rice Value Chain Development project, which he said would promote full mechanization, create processing hubs, and enhance access to both local and international markets.
“This initiative aims not simply for increased output but for complete transformation. We pledge to turn Jigawa into Nigeria’s leading rice producer and a vibrant hub for agribusiness and rural prosperity,” he added.
He urged farmers to make the most of the opportunity and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustaining support and favorable policies.
Governor Namadi also reiterated his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on the diversion of farm inputs, emphasizing that violators will be dealt with decisively.
