Muhammad Alabira Nabordo
The Deputy Minister of Agriculture from Liberia, David Akoi, led a powerful delegation to Jigawa State for a study tour focused on rice production.
During a courtesy call at the Government House in Dutse, Akoi explained that Liberia imports about 70% of its rice needs, despite being a major rice consumer.
He said t pplhe Liberian government aims to change this narrative by producing at least 70% of its consumption needs.
Akoi highlighted the significance of rice in Liberia’s politics and economy, recalling the 1979 “rice riot” that led to the overthrow of President William R. Tolbert.
He expressed optimism that the partnership with Jigawa would enable Liberia to transform its rice value chain and increase domestic production.
The Liberian delegation is in Nigeria for a week-long agricultural exchange program, sponsored by Concern Worldwide under the Irish Aid-funded IFANSI project.
Also Governor Malam Umar Namadi welcomed the Liberian delegation and commended them for choosing Jigawa State for their study tour. He highlighted Jigawa’s strides in agriculture, noting that the sector is the mainstay of the state’s economy.
The Governor stated that Jigawa’s rice production has grown significantly, from 60,000-70,000 hectares in 2023 to over 200,000 hectares in 2024, with a target of nearly 300,000 hectares this year.
He said the state government has implemented various initiatives to boost agriculture, including revamping existing irrigation dams, which has increased production by over 4,500 hectares.
Additionally, the government has purchased 300 new tractors, 60 combined harvesters, and 150 planters to enhance rice and other crops farming.
Namadi explained that each of Jigawa’s 30 constituencies now has at least 10 tractors for subsidized hire services for smallholder farmers.
