Scarcity Of Essential Commodities: Jigawa Embarks On All-Year-Round Farming

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

In an effort to boost food sufficiency amidst the current scarcity of essential commodities in the country, the Jigawa state Government has announced plans to start an all year round farming system.

The scheme which will entail engagement in both rainy and dry seasons mass production of essential food crops, will be woven around the Maigatari area and Sahel parts of the state.

Governor Umar Namadi, just back from his economic mission to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, at an interactive session on Thursday February 29 2024 in Dutse the state capital revealed that several foreign investors have bought in to the idea and are set to partner with the state in investing in Dry season farming in addition to the usual Raining season exercise.

A statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant SSA to the Governor on Media Affairs Hajia Zainab Rabo Ringim, noted that the all year round farming which will be powered by an actively functional irrigation system is geared towards ensuring food sufficiency in the state and beyond.

” Some of the proposals bother on the need to introduce irrigation services where there are  none by way of providing mini Dams  sporadically, as well as boreholes” the statement stated.

To ensure ready markets for the agricultural produce, Govenor Namadi said plans are under way to upgrade and expand existing local markets within Maigatari and environs ,adding that  already the area is playing host to  the largest cattle and animal businesses in the  West African sub region.

The Jigawa state Governor assured of putting all required measures in place for standard and quality packaging of agricultural produce with a view to boosting value chain and  competitiveness at the international market.

According to Governor Namadi, the Maigatari Free Trade Zone located  within the fringes of Nigeria/Niger border is already a key economic asset to Jigawa,with potentials to increase its foreign earnings, as well as  support the State’s ambitious economic development agenda.