Niger State has deepened its agricultural transformation agenda with new partnerships aimed at scaling up dairy production, sugar processing and value chain development across the state.
Governor Umaru Bago revealed the expansion drive during farm inspections and strategic investment meetings held with local and international partners in Minna.
According to statements by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Bologi Ibrahim, Bago said the collaborations are part of a deliberate effort to modernize the state’s livestock sector and align with global standards in dairy productivity.
He disclosed that the government will implement comprehensive vaccination programmes to protect cattle from diseases that limit efficient milk production.
The Governor added that the initiative supports Nigeria’s broader food sovereignty ambition, noting that Niger State is strategically positioned to contribute significantly to national nutrition and agro-industrial growth.
He emphasized that the state is focusing on sustainable systems capable of delivering prosperity to farmers and strengthening supply chains.
In a related investment mission, Bago announced that 20,000 hectares of land have been allocated for upscaling sugar production.
He gave the assurance during a meeting with the Chairman of Flour Mills of Nigeria, John Coumantaros, and foreign investors from Brazil, the United States and South Africa, who were in the state to explore agricultural opportunities.
The visiting investors were taken on a tour of the Tagwai Dam and Tagwai feedlots, where Bago unveiled plans to expand water-based agricultural activities and increase capacity to feed the nation.
He noted that improving seed quality remains a top priority, acknowledging that inadequate access to certified seeds has long hindered farmers’ productivity.
On livestock improvement, the Governor explained that Nigerian cattle genetics will be upgraded through partnerships with Brazilian specialists, while modern pastures will be developed to sustain high-quality milk output.
He also revealed that local abattoirs will be repositioned to transition from crude meat handling to hygienically processed frozen meat products.
Bago maintained that the state will fully harness its water bodies and earth dams to drive all-season agricultural production.
He expressed readiness to strengthen every component of the value chain to ensure that farming becomes profitable and Nigeria becomes more self-reliant in food supply.
Chairman of Flour Mills of Nigeria, Coumantaros, praised the Governor’s leadership, describing him as a visionary transforming Nigeria’s agro-industrial outlook.
He said the collaborations would reshape the sugar and seed ecosystem while improving livelihoods for thousands of farmers.
Development partners reaffirmed their commitment to supporting what they called Niger State’s bold agricultural revolution, one they believe will set a new benchmark for agribusiness in Nigeria.
