The Jigawa State government, in collaboration with HarvestPlus, has flagged off the distribution of bio-fortified seeds to 30,000 smallholder farmers for increased production across the state’s 27 local government areas.
At the flag-off ceremony in Dutse, the state capital, Governor Malam Umar Namadi emphasised that the initiative underscores his administration’s commitment to partnering with organisations such as HervestPlus to improve the agricultural sector and the people’s overall well-being.
He explained that the new improved seed varieties are climate-resilient and fortified with iron and zinc to enhance their nutritional value.
Governor Namadi noted that these seeds have the potential to increase yields by over 100% compared to ordinary seeds and are highly resistant to drought and pests.
“I am optimistic that these improved seeds will boost farmers’ incomes, strengthen national food security, and help address malnutrition due to their added nutritional benefits,” he said.
“I urge Jigawa farmers to adopt these seeds and follow proper planting guidelines. On our part, we will provide support through extension workers for continuous monitoring, advice, and timely interventions when needed,” Governor Namadi added.
The Country Manager of HarvestPlus, Dr Yusuf Dollah Fou’ad, stated that the distributed bio-fortified seeds include maise and millet.
Dr Yusuf assured farmers that the seeds are the product of extensive scientific research and have been successfully used in various regions worldwide.
“Our partnership with the Jigawa State government aims to provide these seeds to 30,000 smallholder farmers to enhance productivity, create jobs, reduce poverty, improve food security and nutrition,” he said.
One of the farmers who tested the seeds, Malam Almu Dandodo Gumel from Gumel, shared his experience. He stated that he cultivated the millet seeds over two farming seasons and confirmed their climate resilience and high yield, almost three times greater than ordinary seeds.
