… As governor Namadi orders immediate implementation
Jigawa State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Agrighar India, an international agribusiness firm, to drive inclusive and technology-based agricultural development across the state.
Governor Malam Umar Namadi disclosed this during a meeting with the Agrighar team led by Dr. Sowmini Sunkara on Saturday, following the completion of a two-week Agrighar Scoping Study carried out in ten local government areas.
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Namadi described the study as a “true reflection” of his administration’s vision for agricultural transformation, commending the team for its detailed assessment of Jigawa’s agricultural potential.
“This study is a true reflection of our vision, and the dedication shown by your team has given us confidence that you are a partner in progress,” he said.
The governor said the study’s findings would help empower rural communities through women-led agribusiness models, youth entrepreneurship, and technology-driven farming practices. He added that the proposals align perfectly with his administration’s plan to make Jigawa a leading agribusiness hub.
“By 2030, Jigawa will be recognized not only in Nigeria but globally for the quality of our agricultural products,” he stated.
A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Hamisu Mohammed Gumel, said the Agrighar team explored key agricultural value chains such as rice, groundnut, cassava, hibiscus, dairy, and fisheries, and held discussions with farmers and cooperatives to identify their challenges and opportunities.
Some of the key initiatives recommended include the establishment of agribusiness incubation clusters across selected LGAs, the revival of non-functional processing centres in Jahun, Gidan Ara, and Kila Ward through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models, and the introduction of solar-powered processing systems to enhance competitiveness.
Other recommendations include linking Jigawa producers to larger markets in Kano and beyond, improving cooperative governance and branding, and strengthening value addition to increase rural incomes.
In her remarks, Dr. Sowmini Sunkara, leader of the Agrighar India delegation, said the project seeks to create sustainable livelihoods and make Jigawa a model state for inclusive agribusiness development in Nigeria.
“Our interactions during the field visits demonstrated the eagerness of local farmers and stakeholders to engage and innovate,” she noted.
Governor Namadi assured the delegation of his government’s readiness to begin immediate implementation of the MoU, emphasizing that the partnership reflects Jigawa’s commitment to sustainable agricultural transformation.
“We are ready to work with you and start implementing this transformative project without delay. The enthusiasm of our people shows we are on the right path,” the governor said.