Jigawa supports farmers with subsidised inputs
The Jigawa State government has reported significant strides in agricultural development, empowering more than 250,000 farmers across its 27 Local Government Areas through subsidized agricultural inputs over the past two years.
Speaking to journalists, the Technical Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture, Dr. Saifullahi Umar, highlighted that since Governor Umar Namadi assumed office in 2023, targeted support has covered both dry-season and rain-season farming. Key crops benefiting from this initiative include rice, wheat, and sesame—products that solidify Jigawa’s standing as a major agricultural hub in Nigeria.
Umar credited the success of the empowerment programme to proactive government policies and an enabling environment, noting that billions of naira have been allocated to sustain agriculture, the backbone of Jigawa’s economy according to National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) data.
Addressing issues surrounding farmer loan repayments, Umar stated that over 60% of the farmers who accessed subsidized input loans have either completed or are finalizing their repayments. This, he said, ensures the programme’s sustainability and broadens its reach to additional beneficiaries.
On concerns about the timeliness of input distribution, Umar assured that deliveries align well with the farming calendar. He also debunked claims of overpriced subsidized inputs, asserting that Jigawa offers some of the lowest rates nationally.
Looking ahead, Umar revealed that the state’s ambitious 2025 dry-season rice farming programme targets producing 50% of Nigeria’s rice demand. This initiative, led by Governor Namadi, focuses heavily on supporting smallholder farmers (0.5 to 5 hectares), who receive 20–30% subsidies on critical inputs like fertilisers, seeds, and pesticides, while large-scale farmers benefit from 10% subsidies.
Source:Punch
Expert Review for Agri-Food Stakeholders
The Jigawa State government’s farmer support initiative demonstrates a strategic and targeted approach to agricultural development, offering several lessons and opportunities for Nigeria’s broader agri-food ecosystem.
- For Policymakers: Targeted Subsidy Schemes Strengthen Rural Economies
Prioritizing smallholder farmers with higher subsidy rates (20–30%) promotes inclusiveness, rural income growth, and food system resilience. Other states can replicate Jigawa’s model by ensuring differentiated support that favors the majority smallholder base while still encouraging larger commercial investments. - For Farmers: Embrace Timely Loan Repayments to Sustain Support Systems
The reported 60% repayment rate is commendable but signals the need for continued financial literacy programs among farmers. Farmers must view subsidized input loans as partnerships requiring timely repayment to ensure the system remains available for more participants. - For Agribusinesses: Opportunities in Input Supply Chains and Mechanization
With government commitment to scaling rice, wheat, and sesame production, agribusinesses can invest in input supply (fertilizer, seeds, pesticides) and mechanization services. Jigawa’s rising input demand creates new markets for agro-dealers, tractor service providers, and input financing schemes. - For Development Partners: Strengthen Monitoring, Market Access, and Farmer Organization
While input support boosts production, development partners should focus on building market linkages, post-harvest infrastructure, and cooperative models to ensure farmers realize better prices and reduce post-harvest losses. Tracking subsidy impact through robust monitoring and evaluation (M&E) systems will also be critical for long-term programme success. - For Investors: Jigawa’s Rice Ambition Signals a New Agribusiness Frontier
The state’s goal to meet 50% of Nigeria’s rice needs positions it as a prime location for investments in rice milling, warehousing, logistics, and export ventures. Early investments in Jigawa’s rice value chain could yield strong returns as production scales up.
Conclusion: Jigawa’s Bold Farmer Empowerment Efforts Show Promise for National Replication
Jigawa State’s strategic use of subsidies, focus on smallholder empowerment, and clear vision for scaling key crops like rice present a replicable model for other states grappling with food security and rural development challenges. Sustained transparency, farmer engagement, and private sector collaboration will be key to achieving its ambitious targets and positioning Jigawa as a leading agricultural powerhouse in Nigeria.
