Niger State has taken another step toward transforming its rice production capacity as a delegation from the AfricaRice centre visited Minna on a fact-finding mission to assess the state’s preparedness in driving the newly signed agricultural partnership.
The partnership, signed in July this year between the Niger State government and AfricaRice, is designed to raise the state’s annual paddy rice output from 1.5 million metric tons to 10 million metric tons by 2030.
It also focuses on climate-smart rice production, advanced processing technologies, and modern agricultural practices tailored to the state’s agro-ecological conditions over the next five years.
Receiving the team at the Council Chamber of Government House in Minna, the farmer governor described AfricaRice as an inspiration and reiterated the administration’s commitment to maximizing Niger State’s strength in agriculture. He noted that the state will leave no stone unturned in harnessing the vast potential of rice production.
“With this partnership, the quantity of rice Niger State will be producing would help in cutting down rice importation into the country by about 70%, create employment, increase revenue generation, and improve the socio-economic life of the people of the state,” the governor stated.
He appreciated the AfricaRice delegation for the visit and assured them of his government’s determination to make the collaboration a success.
The Director General of the AfricaRice centre, Dr Baboucarr Manneh, commended the efforts of the Niger State government in investing in agriculture. He described the state’s commitment and political will as impressive, stressing that AfricaRice is ready to support the transformation agenda.
“With the level of commitment and political will demonstrated by the farmer governor, AfricaRice is poised to translate the state’s ambition on rice production to reality,” Dr Manneh said.
He explained that AfricaRice will deploy its technical expertise across different stages of rice development, from seedlings to planting systems and extension services for farmers. According to him, the target is not only to boost output but also to achieve rice self-sufficiency and ensure sustainability in the long term.