“Farmers Count Losses As Niger’s Agric Revolution Consumes Cultivated Lands “

In Niger State, the government’s agricultural revolution has led to the destruction of already cultivated farms, causing distress among farmers in Mariga LGA. Implemented through Niger Foods Logistics Limited and other partners, the initiative aims to cultivate 250,000 hectares across 25 LGAs. However, newly purchased tractors have destroyed mature maize crops on more than 60 hectares, affecting around 200 farmers. Despite assurances of compensation, farmers lament the loss of their crops and investments, seeking fairness and support from the government. The Agriculture Commissioner confirmed the destruction and promised compensation. Source; Daily Trust

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The agricultural revolution in Niger State, while ambitious in its scope to cultivate 250,000 hectares, has led to the destruction of already cultivated lands, severely impacting local farmers. This has caused significant losses, as mature crops have been destroyed, exacerbating food insecurity and economic hardship. The state government, through partnerships like Niger Foods Logistics, plans to compensate affected farmers, but the immediate damage has been considerable.
To ensure informed decision-making and growth, it is crucial to balance large-scale agricultural initiatives with the protection of existing smallholder farmers’ livelihoods.