Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, has reiterated the Federal Government’s dedication to ensure food security, drive economic diversification, empower women and young people, while leveraging opportunities within the agricultural sector.
During a working visit to the Jangwa Rice Farm in Ayarkeke, Awe Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, Sen. Kyari emphasized that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is committed to transforming the nation’s agricultural landscape to meet increasing food demands.
He noted that the Federal Government’s agricultural strategies are designed to close the country’s food supply gap and build sustainable food systems. According to him, achieving this vision requires close collaboration with state governments and private sector stakeholders to strengthen the country’s food security framework.
Sen. Kyari stressed that the goal of self-sufficiency in food production can only be met through expanded investment in agricultural production by both state governments and private investors. He further stated that the visit reflects the united resolve of federal and state authorities to attain food self-reliance and promote inclusive growth in the agricultural sector.
At the farm site, the Minister assured the farmers of the Federal Government’s unwavering support for their activities.
Highlighting the importance of youth empowerment, he stated, “Young people are the hope of our future. By investing in them today, we are safeguarding the nation’s tomorrow.”
He further promised to return after the harvest season to evaluate the initiative’s positive impact on the community.
According to the Minister, this project is expected to inspire more states to channel investments into agriculture, significantly cut down rice imports, and accelerate the growth of the rice value chain. He affirmed that it would enhance rice production while acting as a driving force for sector-wide development.
In his address, the Governor of Nasarawa State, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, reaffirmed the state’s position as one of Nigeria’s leading rice producers and the country’s largest sesame grower. He noted that the initiative has successfully created opportunities for youth and women in agriculture, while also contributing to a reduction in crime rates within the state.
The visit centered on a 1,300-hectare rice farm located in Jangwa, Nasarawa State, one of the Legacy Agricultural Projects championed by Governor Abdullahi A. Sule. The farm is organized into three sections: Block A (250 hectares), Block B (350 hectares), and Segment C (700 hectares), serving as a model for youth and women’s participation in commercial farming.
High-quality rice seeds, specifically Faro 45 and Faro 61, are sourced from Olam, which also acts as the primary off-taker of the harvested paddy.
