The Federal Government has secured a $134 million loan from the African Development Bank to enhance agricultural production, particularly focusing on seeds and grains.
This development was announced in a statement by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, with Chief Information Officer Eremah Anthonia highlighting that the funding aims to support farmers nationwide, increasing the output of key crops and bolstering national food security.
Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, revealed the loan during the launch of the 2024/2025 National Dry Season Farming initiative in Calabar, attended by Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu’s representative, Deputy Governor Peter Odey. Kyari underscored the importance of reviving year-round farming, stating that it is crucial for continuous agricultural production and securing the nation’s food supply.
The loan, part of the National Agricultural Growth Support Scheme – Agro Pocket Project, will aid farmers in cultivating essential crops like wheat, rice, maize, sorghum, soybean, and cassava.
Kyari noted that this strategic initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s declared emergency on food production, aimed at ensuring affordable, nutritious food for all Nigerians. He shared updates on the 2023/2024 dry season program, where over 343,000 farmers across various crop categories have already received support, including 107,429 wheat farmers in phase one and 43,997 rice farmers in phase two.
Cross River State was highlighted for its role in advancing wheat production, with more than 3,000 wheat farmers in the state set to benefit from the funding.
The initiative plans to support 250,000 wheat farmers in total, aiming for an output of 750,000 metric tons, thereby reducing the nation’s reliance on imports. Similarly, the program will assist 150,000 rice farmers to produce an estimated 450,000 metric tons of rice across all 37 states, including the Federal Capital Territory.
Governor Otu emphasized his state’s dedication to the agricultural mission, stressing that Cross River’s strategic commitment to wheat production aligns with national goals. National Project Coordinator Buba Ishaku added that the initiative would provide farmers with high-quality seeds and grains, ensuring a significant increase in yields and benefiting millions across the country.
