By Ahmed Rufa’i, Dutse
The National Agency for the Great Green Wall (NAGGW) has initiated the procurement of 5 million date plant seedlings for distribution across 11 states, aiming to establish shelter belts and boost Nigeria’s commercial date production.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Emir of Dutse, Alhaji Muhammad Hameem Nuhu Sanusi, the Director General of NAGGW, Alhaji Saleh Abubakar, revealed that the agency has partnered with Sulaiman Farms and Agro-Allied Company Limited for the project.
“We are in Jigawa State to inspect the seedlings before distributing them to beneficiary states. Dutse has demonstrated excellence in date production,” Abubakar stated.
The DG highlighted the dual benefits of the initiative, emphasizing its environmental and economic value.
“Twenty date seedlings can generate up to N12 million annually once they start bearing fruits in a few years.
On a larger scale, the plantations are expected to contribute about N300 billion annually to the national economy,” he said.
The project will also enhance Nigeria’s capacity as a potential exporter of dates, creating jobs and boosting agricultural productivity in the selected states.
The Emir of Dutse, His Highness Alhaji Muhammad Hameem Nuhu Sanusi, lauded the initiative, urging other agencies to explore Jigawa State’s agricultural potential.
“My late father, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi, was passionate about date farming and even sought advanced techniques from Morocco. This project aligns with his vision and will greatly benefit the state and nation,” the Emir said.
The monarch also praised the project consultant, Alhaji Bashir Aminu, describing him as a patriotic son of Dutse Emirate committed to agricultural development.
The Consultant for the project and Chairman of Sulaiman Farms and Agro-Allied Company Limited, Alhaji Bashir Aminu (Dan Amar Dutse), noted Jigawa State’s unique position in the global date market.
“With over 150 species of dates, Jigawa has the potential to lead the world in date production. Our farm is prepared to support large-scale cultivation to ensure Nigeria becomes a major exporter of this vital crop,” Aminu stated.
The NAGGW delegation inspected date plant pre-nurseries and plantations at Sulaiman Farms, underscoring the agency’s commitment to addressing desertification while boosting economic development through sustainable agriculture.
This landmark project is a critical step in positioning Nigeria as an agricultural powerhouse and mitigating the environmental effects of desertification.