The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening food security, diversifying the economy, and empowering youth- and women-led Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the agricultural value chain.
Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, gave the assurance during a working visit to the 1,300-hectare Jangwa Rice Farm in Awe Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.
He said the Tinubu administration's policies are designed to close the national food supply gap, promote sustainable food systems, and foster inclusive agricultural growth, with active participation from state governments and private investors.
Read also,
Kyari described youth as "the promise of tomorrow," stressing that investing in them through modern farming techniques and agribusiness training will secure the nation's future. He pledged to revisit the farm after harvest to assess its impact, noting that the initiative will reduce rice imports, expand local production, and spur growth across the rice value chain.
Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, highlighted the state's role as one of Nigeria's leading rice producers and the top sesame producer in the country. He said the Jangwa project has created opportunities for youth and women, while also curbing crime through job creation.
The farm, segmented into three blocks covering 250, 350, and 700 hectares respectively, uses high-quality Faro 45 and Faro 61 seeds supplied by Olam, which also serves as the primary off-taker. The initiative supports MSMEs engaged in cultivation, processing, logistics, and related agribusiness services.
