The Flour Milling Association of Nigeria (FMAN) has taken significant steps to accelerate paddy production in the country by empowering 8,000 wheat growers.
The development was made known by Dr. Aliyu Sama’ila, FMAN’s National Programme Manager for the Wheat Development Project, during the Green Wheat Farmer Field Day held at the Kadani plantation in Kura Local Government Area of Kano State.
He highlighted the event as an opportunity to showcase innovative and improved wheat cultivation technologies.
He said “This initiative extends across the six operational states where FMAN has established demonstration farms.
“These farms serve as platforms to exhibit improved techniques and management practices aimed at enhancing wheat cultivation nationwide. “
Dr. Sama’ila emphasized FMAN’s commitment to providing a market for wheat farmers in Nigeria, stating plans to expand procurement activities across wheat-producing states.
He said “The programme’s proactive approach includes farmer support services aimed at sustainable wheat production and increased yields per hectare, enabling wheat to compete with rice and other crops. Additionally, the programme encourages the cultivation of demonstration farms in 15 states, providing training on Good Agronomic Practices to farmers.”
“FMAN’s efforts have already engaged 1,500 wheat farmers to cultivate 1,000 hectares of wheat in Kano, to reduce reliance on wheat imports. “
On his part, the Executive Director of the Lake Chad Research Institute, Prof. Babagana Kabir, highlighted the institute’s national mandate for genetic improvement in wheat, millet, and barley.
He however announced the release of four new wheat varieties, furthering the institute’s commitment to research and development for food self-sufficiency.
Furthermore, Alhaji Abdullahi Kabir, the District Head of Kura, expressed gratitude to FMAN, the Central Bank of Nigeria, and other donor agencies for supporting farmers.
He encouraged farmers to double their efforts to improve productivity, echoing sentiments from farmers who lauded the initiative, recognizing its potential to significantly enhance production output.