Hajiya Fatima Mohammed Umar Bago, the wife of Niger State Governor,has revealed plans to support smallholder farmers in accessing biofortified crops and integrating small livestock into household farming systems.
The Niger First Lady also raised an alarm over a possible food crisis in Nigeria.
Referring to the Cadre Harmonisé report, she highlighted the dire prediction that over 33 million Nigerians could face severe food shortages by 2025.
Speaking at the 10th Nutritious Food Fair and Decoration in Minna, an event organised by Harvest Plus in partnership with the Niger State Government, Mrs Bago expressed concern about the country’s food security challenges.
She reaffirmed Niger State’s commitment to becoming Africa’s agricultural hub under Governor Mohammed Bago’s leadership, with a focus on agricultural innovation to ensure food security.
She stated that the government is actively working towards positioning Niger State as a leader in agricultural advancements and that achieving food security is not only possible but also sustainable.
Mrs Bago revealed plans to support smallholder farmers in accessing biofortified crops and integrating small livestock into household farming systems. These initiatives, she said, would provide families with sustainable protein sources and alternative income streams.
In addition, she stressed the importance of empowering women in agriculture. Niger State, according to her, will prioritise the training of female agricultural extension officers and community health workers. These professionals will engage directly with families, equipping them with practical knowledge on incorporating nutritious crops and small livestock into their everyday lives.
Mrs Bago called on government agencies, development organisations, private sector stakeholders, and community leaders to work collaboratively toward creating a system where every household has access to nutritious food.
She emphasised the need for collective effort to combat food insecurity and build a resilient agricultural sector.