Governor Umar Bago of Niger State has called on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) across Nigeria to tap into the country's vast agricultural resources as a pathway to growth and national prosperity.
Speaking at the Taraba International Investment Summit in Jalingo, Bago emphasized that Nigeria's fertile land, abundant sunlight, and water resources make it possible to farm all year round, offering a unique advantage for agri-focused businesses.
Describing Nigeria as a nation "too rich in agriculture to be poor," Bago urged SMEs to see farming not just as a necessity, but as a profitable and scalable business opportunity. He pointed out that while European farmers are limited to short seasons, Nigerian entrepreneurs can cultivate crops 365 days a year, making agriculture a viable and sustainable enterprise.
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He further encouraged state governments to support the agricultural sector by partnering with construction firms to prepare large expanses of land for cultivation, creating affordable access for small-scale farmers and agro-startups.
Governor Bago, who referred to himself as the "Chief Farmer of Nigeria," stressed the role of government as a facilitator—ensuring that infrastructure, capital, and favorable policies are in place for SMEs to thrive in agriculture.
With the right tools, partnerships, and support systems, Bago noted, SMEs can drive food security, create jobs, and lead Nigeria's exit from poverty through agribusiness.
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