Jigawa Farmers Record Higher Yields With Climate-smart Wheat Technology

Farmers in Jigawa State have recorded improved wheat yields following the introduction of climate-smart agricultural practices under a partnership between the Sasakawa Africa Association and the state government.

This development was showcased during a Mega Wheat Farmers’ Field Day held in Gilima Community, Taura local government area, where the farmers and other stakeholders assessed the impact of the initiative.

The participants observed that wheat cultivated on SAA-supported demonstration plots outperformed crops grown using traditional methods, highlighting the benefits of improved seed varieties, precision fertiliser application and modern agronomic practices.

The chairman of Taura LGA, Shuaibu Hambali, described SAA as a dependable partner in agricultural development, noting that the organisation had supported smallholder farmers in the state for over three decades.

A farmer and leader of the Gilima Wheat Farmers Multipurpose Cooperative Society, Yaro Gilima, said the demonstration boosted farmers’ confidence in adopting the new methods.

“What we have seen on this field is very encouraging. The wheat variety is performing better than our traditional varieties, even under changing weather conditions. I will adopt this method on my farm,” he said.

Another farmer, Bilkisu, said the training exposed participants to simple practices capable of improving yield and income.

“The drilling planting method and proper fertiliser application, which specifies quantity, timing and placement, have made a clear difference,” she said.

The field day forms part of efforts by SAA and the Jigawa State Government to promote climate-smart agriculture and improve farmer productivity.

SAA/Jigawa Project Lead, Albert Taru, said the initiative also includes support for post-harvest handling and value addition facilities in benefiting communities.

Other stakeholders at the event called for the scaling up of climate-smart practices to boost wheat production and strengthen food security in the state.