Muhammad Alabira Nabordo
Jigawa State Governor, Malam Umar Namadi, has launched a groundbreaking initiative to distribute biofortified millet and maize seeds to 30,000 smallholder farmers across the state.
Namadi who launched the seeds yesterday in Dutse, the state capital said the initiative can provide the needed nutrition across the state.
This move is aimed at tackling malnutrition and promote climate-resilient farming practices across the state.
He stressed that the program is supported by HarvestPlus and the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), which aligns with Governor Namadi’s 12-point agenda, focusing on sustainable agricultural development and food security.
The Governor said the Biofortified Seeds are enriched with essential nutrients like iron, vitamin A, and zinc, crucial for fighting malnutrition, particularly among children.
He said the seeds are climate resilience, because they are engineered to thrive in challenging weather conditions, addressing concerns about food production in the face of climate change.
The Governor said the state government is implementing a comprehensive agenda to improve productivity, sustainability, and food security, including recruiting 1,435 extension workers and supporting over 40,000 rice and wheat farmers.
Namadi emphasized that the initiative is not just an agricultural intervention but a health-driven one, aiming to empower farmers with tools to confront climate change and support development objectives.
He also highlighted the state’s commitment to becoming a national leader in agriculture, with plans to expand wheat and rice production.
“Implementation and support,
the state government will provide training and support to extension workers and farmers to maximize the impact of the biofortified seeds.
“This initiative is part of a broader effort to boost efficiency and food security in Jigawa State, positioning it as a leader in agricultural production,” he concluded.
