What's Happening?
Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State and the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, have initiated the National Agricultural Growth Scheme Agro-Pocket (NAGS-AP) project aimed
at enhancing food security and local production for over 6,000 farmers in Borno. The project, part of the Federal Government's efforts to empower smallholder farmers, aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda. The launch event, held in Jere Local Government Area, also marked the start of the Federal Government's wheat cultivation intervention program. Agricultural inputs such as high-yield wheat seeds, blended fertilizers, tractors, and pesticides were distributed to Cooperative Societies and Associations. The program targets 80,000 registered farmers nationwide for the 2025/2026 farming season, with an expected output value of N160 billion.
Why It's Important?
The NAGS-AP project is crucial for strengthening Nigeria's food security, especially in Borno State, which is recovering from insurgency. By empowering smallholder farmers, who produce over 80% of Nigeria's food, the initiative aims to stabilize the food system and boost agricultural productivity. The program's focus on wheat cultivation across 16 states, including Borno, is expected to enhance national output and contribute significantly to the economy. The support from development partners like the African Development Bank and the Japan International Cooperation Agency further underscores the project's potential to transform agricultural practices and improve livelihoods in the region.
What's Next?
The NAGS-AP project will continue with its second phase, promoting the cultivation of other priority crop value chains across Borno State. The initiative is expected to drive measurable gains in productivity and strengthen the systems supporting agricultural growth. Governor Zulum's leadership and the Federal Government's commitment to food security will likely lead to further investments in irrigation, mechanization, and extension services, equipping farmers to achieve higher yields. The ongoing collaboration with development partners will play a crucial role in enhancing input delivery mechanisms and productivity.
Beyond the Headlines
The launch of the NAGS-AP project in Borno State represents a significant step in the region's post-insurgency era of Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, and Resettlement. By focusing on agricultural development, the initiative not only aims to improve food security but also to foster economic resilience and social stability. The project's emphasis on empowering smallholder farmers, women, and youths highlights its potential to drive inclusive growth and address long-standing socio-economic challenges in the region.
