Niger State Government has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Turkish company, Direkci Group, to off-take 500,000 tonnes of soya beans annually for 10 years from the state.
The agreement, valued at $2 billion, is expected to boost agriculture, create job opportunities, and improve the economic status of local farmers.
Governor Umaru Bago described the agreement as “a game-changer” and expressed appreciation to the Turkish Government for their willingness to invest in Niger State.
“This collaboration is a game-changer for Niger State, and we are confident it will significantly reduce unemployment and boost food security,” he said.
The 10-year partnership, worth $200 million per year, will see Direkci Group off-take 500,000 tonnes of soya beans annually, according to Niger Foods Chairman, Sammy Adigun. The agreement will empower local farmers by providing seeds, fertilizers, and a guaranteed market for their produce.
Adigun revealed that the Turkish firm is also investing in a100,000 hectare green house project with cold chain facilities, 2.5 million chicken production poultry facility, and 30,000 hectares of soya beans farms with irrigation systems.
Managing Director and CEO of Direkci Group, Nurullah Mehmet, emphasized the firm’s global excellence in agriculture and commended Governor Bago’s vision for boosting agricultural activities.
“This partnership will be of great benefit to the state and the country at large,” Mehmet said.
The agreement is expected to transform Niger State’s agricultural sector and have a positive impact on the local economy.