By Ahmed Rufa’i, Dutse
In a major boost to agricultural development, Jigawa State has set its sights on becoming Nigeria’s leading rice producer, following the delivery of 20,000 water pumping machines to dry season farmers.
The initiative is powered by a combined effort from the Federal Government, which donated 10,000 gasoline water pumps, and the state government, which procured additional 10,000 solar-powered units. 
The machines will be distributed across the 27 local government areas, supporting the cultivation of over 130,000 hectares during the current dry season.
Technical Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Sefullahi Umar, told National Update that the intervention falls under the Rice Value Chain Development Project (RVCDP) launched by Governor Malam Umar Namadi.
The project he explained is aimed not just to increase yields but to fully transform Jigawa’s rice sector into a job-creating, income-generating powerhouse.
“We are targeting 58,000 rice farmers this season alone,” Dr. Umar said.
“Our ambitious goal is to hit 3.6 million metric tonnes in annual rice production by combining improved seed varieties, modern irrigation, full mechanization, and expanded market access.”
Farmers will also receive subsidized input packages, including 200,000 bags of NPK 15-15-15 fertilizer,150,000 bags of urea fertilizer, 2,500 improved rice seedlings, 50,000 liters of herbicide, 50,000 sachets of fungicide and 100,000 liters each of harpcite and pesticide
Smallholder farmers, who make up 80% of the beneficiaries, will enjoy subsidies between 20% and 30%, while larger farmers will access a 10% subsidy.
Farmers cultivating one hectare will be equipped with Faro 44 seeds, fertilizers, and a full range of crop protection products.
Beyond production, Dr. Umar stressed that the broader goal is agricultural transformation:
“We are moving towards a future where Jigawa becomes a center for agribusiness innovation, mechanized farming, and global rice markets. This is about rural prosperity, not just output numbers.”
He urged beneficiaries to maximize the opportunity, emphasizing that success depends on discipline, proper management of inputs, and adoption of modern practices.
With this aggressive strategy, Jigawa State is not only preparing for a bumper harvest but also planting the seeds for long-term economic sustainability.
