In a remarkable shift within Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, Niger State has emerged as the nation’s new food basket, overtaking Benue State, a title long held by the latter. This historic announcement was made by Musa Bosso, Niger State’s Commissioner for Agriculture, during the 2024 World Food Day celebration at the Legbo Kutigi Conference Centre in Minna.
Under the leadership of Governor Mohammed Bago, Niger State has made significant strides in the agricultural sector, propelling it to the forefront of food production in the country. Speaking through his Deputy, Garba Yakubu, Governor Bago emphasized the state’s ambitious agricultural initiatives, noting that Niger is now well-positioned to feed not only its own residents but the entire nation.
Central to Niger State’s rise is its utilization of 3 million hectares of arable land, supported by infrastructure investments aimed at boosting food production. Governor Bago outlined his administration’s efforts under the New Niger Agenda, focused on sustainable development that leverages the state’s natural resources.
We will explore about 3 million hectares of arable land with abundant water bodies, 23 grazing reserves, and 94 forest reserves to harness our green economy potential, he stated. This focus on sustainable agricultural development underscores the state's commitment to enhancing food security and economic growth amidst the challenges of climate change, insecurity, and economic instability that have worsened food insecurity across Nigeria.
Niger State’s government has also made significant investments in agricultural machinery, signaling its commitment to transforming farming practices. The state has acquired 1,000 John Deere tractors, 500 Case tractors, and 500 combined harvesters, which are expected to drive agricultural efficiency and productivity.
In addition, plans are underway to establish an Agro processing Free Zone near the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna, further reinforcing Niger’s standing as a hub for agricultural innovation and value addition. This zone will attract both local and international investors looking to tap into the vast opportunities within the state.
Commissioner Musa Bosso expressed pride in the state’s accomplishments, noting that it’s the first time in nearly two decades that Niger State is celebrating World Food Day with such profound success. He credited Governor Bago’s policies for Niger’s transformation into the nation’s food basket, encouraging investors to seize the opportunities presented by the state’s vast agricultural resources.
This is a unique moment for us, Bosso remarked, emphasizing that Niger is poised to lead not only in national food production but also in contributing to Nigeria’s export markets. He urged international partners to continue supporting Niger’s agricultural development through collaborative efforts to modernize farming practices, build infrastructure, and enhance value addition for key crops like rice, maize, cassava, and sorghum.
As Niger State embraces its new role as Nigeria’s agricultural powerhouse, Governor Bago’s administration remains focused on ensuring that these efforts will alleviate hunger, improve livelihoods, and secure Niger’s place as a leader in sustainable agriculture. By harnessing its abundant natural resources, investing in modern farming practices, and fostering local and international collaborations, Niger State is poised to lead Nigeria into a new era of food security and agricultural prosperity.
Niger State’s rise to prominence in the agricultural sector marks a turning point for Nigeria’s food security. With innovative policies, large-scale investments, and a commitment to sustainable growth, Niger has firmly positioned itself as the new food basket of the nation, ready to nourish the country and beyond.