The Federal Government has secured a $134 million loan from the African Development Bank (AfDB) to help farmers increase seed and grain production across Nigeria.
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari disclosed this while launching the 2024/2025 National Dry Season Farming in Calabar, alongside Cross River State governor, Bassey Out who was represented by the deputy governor, Peter Odey.
Kyari explained that the loan will support the reintroduction of national dry season farming, enabling year-round agricultural production and ensuring national food security. The initiative is part of the National Agricultural Growth Support Scheme-Agro Pocket (NAGS-AP) Project, aimed at boosting staple crop production and reviving the agricultural sector.
The minister revealed that the Federal Government has declared an emergency on food production to ensure that Nigerians have access to quality and affordable food. The government plans to use the agricultural sector for economic revival by increasing the production of staple crops such as wheat, rice, maize, sorghum, soybeans and cassava.
Kyari noted that Cross River is leading 16 other states in wheat production, with over 3,000 local farmers expected to benefit. He also stated that for the 2024/2025 dry season farming, the project will support 250,000 wheat farmers, aiming to cultivate 250,000 hectares and yield approximately 750,000 metric tonnes of wheat to reduce reliance on imports.
In his remarks, Otu affirmed the state’s support for the initiative and outlined Cross River’s commitment to enhancing food security. A statement by the director of information at the ministry signed by Mrs. Anthonia Eremah noted that the event included attendance from key stakeholders, international partners, and officials from various states.
The highlight was the flagging off of the 2024/2025 National Dry Season Farming by the ministers.
