By Adam Said Adam, Kano
The Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umar Bago, has initiated a strategic partnership with the National Biosafety Management Agency aimed at expanding farmers’ access to improved seeds and establishing seed multiplication centres across the state.
The move, announced during a courtesy visit to the agency’s headquarters in Abuja, signals a renewed push to align subnational agricultural reforms with national biosafety standards while accelerating food production.
Governor Bago emphasized Niger State’s commitment to adopting modern agricultural practices anchored on safe and regulated biotechnology. He commended the leadership of NBMA, noting that its evolving regulatory framework is critical to driving innovation and improving productivity in Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
“We are ready to collaborate with relevant institutions to ensure farmers gain access to approved, high-performing crop varieties that can transform yields and resilience,” he stated.
In his response, Bello Bawa Bwari highlighted the agency’s role in promoting safe agricultural innovation through science-based regulation. He pointed to the successful commercialization of genetically improved crops such as Bt cotton, Bt cowpea, and TELA maize as milestones in Nigeria’s agricultural advancement.
According to him, these improved varieties have demonstrated significant gains in yield, pest resistance, and climate adaptability—key factors in addressing the country’s food security challenges.
Bwari further disclosed that NBMA is working closely with the Niger State Government to strengthen research collaboration and ensure timely access to certified seeds for farmers under strict regulatory oversight.
The partnership is expected to enhance seed systems, improve agricultural productivity, and support Nigeria’s broader goals of food security, food sovereignty, and sustainable development.
The visit also featured the presentation of an award of recognition to Governor Bago in acknowledgment of his leadership and commitment to advancing agricultural development and institutional collaboration.
