The Nation Newspaper

Category: Agriculture

  • Baptist Convention launches BAYIA scheme to empower youths

    Baptist Convention launches BAYIA scheme to empower youths

    The Nigerian Baptist Convention (NBC) has unveiled its new youth empowerment initiative named Baptist Youth in Agriculture (BAYIA), aimed at tackling unemployment and creating sustainable livelihoods through agriculture.

    The Convention President, Rev. Dr. Israel Adelani Akanji, announced this during the just-concluded Arise Congress 2.0, where over 25,000 youths from across Nigeria and the diaspora gathered at the Baptist International Conference Centre, Lufuwape, Ogun State.

    According to Akanji, BAYIA reflects the Convention’s deliberate commitment to “hand over the future of the Baptist Convention to the youths” by equipping them with practical opportunities in agriculture.

    “Recognizing the vast potential of our youths, BAYIA will provide a platform for empowerment through agriculture. This is not just a program; it is an intentional intervention to create jobs, bridge the unemployment gap, and prepare Baptist youths to be leaders in both ministry and the marketplace,” he said.

    The scheme will begin with a pilot phase, which will see five Baptist youths selected from each conference across the country for intensive training at designated farm training centres.

    Read Also: Baptist Convention targets 50,000 for next Arise Congress

    The NBC has already earmarked its farmland in Dikko, Niger State, near Abuja and Ejigbo, Osun State, as pilot sites for the establishment of farm settlements. 

    Trained participants will be empowered with take-off grants to start production lines in chosen agricultural ventures, thereby multiplying the ripple effect of employment and productivity.

    The initiative will be jointly funded by the Convention, donor agencies, international partners, government and private sector collaborators. 

    Akanji emphasised that this model will ensure sustainability and scalability.

    “Agriculture is a viable path for empowerment, and with BAYIA, we are laying the foundation for a generation of Baptist youths who will not only feed nations but also finance the kingdom,” he added.

    The NBC leadership expressed confidence that BAYIA will transform Baptist youths into job creators, agricultural entrepreneurs, and nation-builders. 

    “BAYIA is not just about farming; it is about creating champions who will shape the future of our denomination, our country, and the world,” Rev. Akanji declared.

  • How agri-tech is rewriting Nigeria’s farming future

    How agri-tech is rewriting Nigeria’s farming future

    A disruptive transformation is reshaping Nigeria’s agriculture—and it’s powered by innovation. From vertical farms and hydroponics to AI-driven mechanisation and clean energy, groundbreaking technologies are transforming how food is grown, distributed and consumed. At the forefront are bold entrepreneurs and forward-thinking institutions, arming young Nigerians with the tools to drive sustainable change. As food security concerns grow, Nigeria is fast-tracking a bold new vision for farming, reports DANIEL ESSIET.

    A quiet revolution is transforming Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, driven by groundbreaking technologies and innovative approaches. These advancements are not only boosting farm efficiency and productivity but also offering renewed hope for food security and economic growth across the nation. From soilless cultivation to digital mechanisation platforms, the future of agriculture looks promising — and stakeholders are taking notice.

    Leading this transformation is Samson Ogbole, a social impact entrepreneur and Team Lead at Eupepsia Place Limited (Soilless Farm) in Ogun State. Ogbole is passionate about equipping young Nigerians with the skills to drive agricultural innovation. His Soilless Farm Lab in Kurere Village, Awowo, showcases the power of vertical and climate-smart farming. Through the Enterprise for Youth in Agriculture (EYiA) — a Mastercard Foundation-funded project — Ogbole’s team is training 12,000 youths (70% women) over three years. The focus: soilless farming (hydroponics, aquaponics, aeroponics), protected cultivation, and cutting-edge irrigation systems.

    “EYiA, funded by the Mastercard Foundation, is empowering young individuals to take the reins in the burgeoning horticulture sector. Our programme goes beyond traditional farming practices, incorporating cutting-edge technologies and sustainable approaches to ensure long-term success,” Ogbole explained. 

    So far, over 9,000 young Nigerians have been trained in modern agricultural practices through the Soilless Farm Lab’s Enterprise for Youth in Agriculture (EYiA) initiative. These participants are equipped with skills in farm management, setup, and produce sales, preparing them for diverse roles in the evolving agribusiness space. At the helm is Samson Ogbole, a passionate social entrepreneur and mentor with i-FAIR — an innovation programme by the Israeli Embassy in Nigeria. Inspired by Israel’s food-water-energy model, Ogbole promotes year-round vegetable cultivation using minimal water resources.

    The impact of EYiA is already evident in inspiring stories like that of Odey Eucharia, a young entrepreneur from northern Nigeria. Initially drawn by the agricultural training, she discovered invaluable business management skills that transformed her cosmetics venture, Euckays Industries Enterprises. In November last year, Eucharia secured N1 million through Soilless Farm Lab’s Deal Room initiative, revitalising her brand, now flourishing with a growing line of haircare products. Her journey highlights the holistic impact of EYiA — blending agricultural innovation with entrepreneurial development to empower youth across sectors.

    READ ALSO: Between X, DSS and Sowore

    Recently, Soilless Farm Lab deepened its commitment to innovation by partnering with the University of Lagos (UNILAG). The collaboration aims to revolutionise urban agriculture using vertical farming technologies. During a strategic meeting, Ogbole pledged full support, including curriculum input, hands-on training, and expedited implementation of a proposed urban agriculture centre. A ₦5 million donation by Soilless Farm Lab kickstarted the partnership. Professor Bola Oboh, UNILAG’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics and Research), reaffirmed the university’s commitment, revealing plans to establish a Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences, and the UNILAG Centre for City Agriculture. She underscored the urgency of the project, aiming for a functional demonstration centre within 12–18 months.

    Meanwhile, innovators like Adebowale Onafowora, CEO of Bic Soilless Technology Farms in Abeokuta, are leveraging hydroponics to produce maize fodder for livestock — showcasing how agricultural technology is addressing food system challenges from crop to cattle. In the face of rising climate challenges and water scarcity, innovative agricultural practices are becoming increasingly vital. According to Onafowora, hydroponics, a method of growing plants without soil, is emerging as a leading solution, offering superior resource efficiency and high-quality yields. He explains that hydroponics ensures efficient use of water and resources while delivering consistently high-quality yields, making it especially suitable for water-stressed regions. “While traditional methods may offer short-term gains, hydroponics provides long-term sustainability,” Onafowora notes. He adds that crops like lettuce, spinach, tomatoes, and strawberries thrive under hydroponic systems, meeting both local and international market demands for freshness and quality.

    In 2017, BIC Farms partnered with Landmark University (LMU), Omu-Aran, Kwara State, to drive a soilless farming revolution. Onafowora underscores the urgency of adapting to urbanisation and dwindling arable land, pointing out that hydroponics makes agriculture more appealing to the younger generation — a crucial factor as Nigeria’s farming population ages. Dr. Samson Odedina, former Ogun State Commissioner for Agriculture and past Rector of the Federal College of Agriculture, Akure, echoes this urgency. He advocates for integrating technology into farming, stating: “The sector faces challenges that demand fast-paced, scalable innovation to transform agri-food systems.”

    One such innovation is Tractrac, a cloud-based platform founded by Godson Ohuruogu. The platform crowd-sources and crowd-funds access to agricultural machinery, providing affordable mechanisation services to over 135,000 smallholder farmers across Nigeria. “Mechanisation isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity for agricultural progress,” Ohuruogu says. His platform, TracTrac-Plus, allows real-time booking of farm equipment, helping farmers improve productivity and reduce manual labour. Together, these innovators reflect a new wave of solution-driven agriculture, harnessing technology to drive sustainability, youth engagement, and food security in Nigeria’s evolving agricultural landscape. “The company is also actively working to address gender and youth gaps in mechanisation by supporting women and young entrepreneurs in setting up sustainable mechanisation businesses.

    The Chief Executive of SMEFUNDS, Femi Oye is championing the urgent need for communities to be “powered up” through decentralised renewable energy projects. His conviction is that these initiatives are not merely about electricity, but are a vital weapon in the fight against hunger, particularly in the country’s most remote rural areas. Oye highlighted the potential of harnessing renewable energy to revolutionise food security.

    With rising temperatures threatening food production, he emphasised the importance of clean energy sources such as solar and biomass. His Green Energy United project, which produces bio-ethanol gel from water hyacinth and sawdust for clean cooking, exemplifies innovative solutions that bridge energy and food security.

    Oye is a strong proponent of kick-starting rural development and promoting food security by deploying solar-powered pumps and irrigation systems. He emphasised that these technologies can reach extremely remote villages, unlocking agricultural potential that has long been hampered by a lack of reliable power. He believes that renewable energy can power various aspects of the agricultural value chain, from processing and storage facilities to providing lighting for extended working hours, all contributing to a more robust and resilient food system.

    Lagos has unveiled plans to enhance the adoption of next-generation agritechnologies through pilot training programmes designed to deepen workforce specialisation levels. Indeed, the state is emerging as a vibrant hub for AgTech, driven by a robust entrepreneurship ecosystem and supportive governmental initiatives. The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food System, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, underscored the positive policy environment for the agritech sector, recognising its strategic significance in addressing food security and driving economic growth.

    “We established the Lagos Innovation Club as a platform for young business owners in the agri space,” Olusanya noted, emphasising the government’s role in facilitating private sector-led initiatives and fostering collaborations.

    Across Africa, countries are looking towards Israel as a model for developing smart technology to improve food security. The Chief Executive Officer of the Agricultural and Rural Management Training Institute (ARMTI), Dr Olufemi Oladunni, urged the Federal Government to cooperate with Israel, particularly in leveraging their expertise in advanced agricultural technologies such as drip irrigation. “Israel is a desert place where everything is green. Their experience in transforming the desert into green land is legendary,” Oladunni observed, highlighting the potential for Nigeria to combat desert encroachment and enhance food production with Israeli knowledge.

    The Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, in a recent event, expressed his country’s pride in partnering with Nigeria to develop its economic and business landscape, emphasising Israel’s readiness for business collaborations. Israeli startups are utilising technology across the entire food supply chain, from agricultural production to the development of nutritious and sustainable food. With over 750 companies driving innovation in the agrifood tech sector, Israel’s advancements in data analysis, Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics and biological sciences offer invaluable lessons for Nigeria.

    The Head of the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), Bruno Gerard, believes Africa’s agricultural landscape stands at a critical juncture, brimming with potential yet facing significant challenges. However, according to him, universities hold the key to unlocking this potential and forging a better future for the Continent’s farmers. Gerard emphasised that these institutions are not just centres of academic learning, but vital engines for innovation, research and capacity building–all essential ingredients for transforming African agriculture.

    According to him, UM6P is ready to partner with Nigerian universities to shape a better Africa for farmers. He sees the university providing incubators for the next generation of agricultural leaders, researchers and extension workers who will drive sustainable practices and food security across the Continent. He highlighted several critical ways the university contributes to this vision. These include developing climate-resilient crops and sustainable farming techniques tailored to Africa’s diverse agro-ecological zones. The research, according to him, is crucial for increasing yields, reducing post-harvest losses and adapting to the impacts of climate change. His insights underscore a compelling vision where academic excellence translates directly into tangible benefits for the millions of farmers who are the backbone of Africa’s economy.

    Early this year, the European Union (EU) reiterated its dedication to revolutionising agriculture in Nigeria and other Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) nations through digitalisation. The commitment was highlighted during a field mission for the EU’s DIGISOL project in Owerri. The Head of Cooperation for the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr Massimo De Luca, emphasised the EU’s resolve, stressing that the DIGISOL project aims at equipping rural farmers with essential digital tools and training.

    The initiative is set to significantly improve agricultural practices across the country. Luca extended his gratitude to the University of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (UAES), Umuagwo, Imo State, for its effective collaboration in training farmers throughout the state. He also acknowledged the support of the Imo State Government, stating that the DIGISOL project will enhance food security and improve livelihood. “The EU DIGISOL project is about digital solutions and the transformation of lives through food sustainability. It’s about ensuring that Nigerian farmers have the tools that they need to thrive in an era of climate change,” Luca stated.

    The project’s Team Lead, Mr Chris Addy-Nayo, explained that the initiative focuses on supporting digital production, processing and the sharing of trade knowledge. He reported that the project has already engaged 100 farmers in Imo, 200 in Kwara and 300 in Ogun states. Addy-Nayo assured farmers of the EU’s continued commitment to optimising agricultural productivity through digital processes. The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (UAES) Umuagwo, Prof Christopher Eze, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to environmental sustainability and climate action through technical education, agriculture, human capital development and food security.

  • NCAN advocates incentives to drive cashew industrialisation

    NCAN advocates incentives to drive cashew industrialisation

    The National Cashew Association of Nigeria (NCAN), the statutory apex body for the country’s cashew value chain, has reaffirmed that Nigeria’s cashew industrialisation can only be achieved through incentives and supportive policies rather than punitive export bans.

    In a statement signed by its President, Dr. Ojo Joseph Ajanaku, NCAN outlined a farmer-first industrialisation framework which is to incentivise processors, not penalise farmers: FX rebates, VAT/duty relief on equipment, and energy support.

    Others are the creation of a Special Agro-Processing Loan Window (SAP-LW) at less than 5%, tied to verified processing contracts via NCAN’s Farm Mapper.

    “Minimum offtake schemes to guarantee farmer markets while supplying processors. Use of NCAN’s Farm Mapper to ensure accountability, curb smuggling, regulate trade, and maintain farmers’ legal access to global buyers while domestic capacity expands.

    Read Also: NCAN warns against cashew export ban

    The association recalled the negative impact of past commodity restrictions, particularly the shea-nut export ban, which was followed by pleas for a 90-day grace period, describing it as evidence that blanket bans create “chaos and instability, not solutions.”

    It, however, warned that any sudden restrictions on raw cashew nut exports would crash farm-gate prices, impoverish millions of smallholder farmers, and fuel smuggling, ultimately weakening government revenue and tarnishing Nigeria’s reputation as a reliable trading partner.

    “Export bans only reward smugglers and punish farmers. Incentives, traceability, and finance will attract investment, create jobs, and strengthen Nigeria’s position in the global cashew economy.

    NCAN further urged the government to adopt a balanced approach that protects farmers while encouraging industrial growth.

  • Hadiza Yaro joins Sakata Seeds West Africa office

    Hadiza Yaro joins Sakata Seeds West Africa office

    Former Nigeria Country Manager of East-West Seed, Dr. Hadiza Yaro, has recently joined Sakata Seeds Nigeria-West Africa Office. 

    In her new role as the Sales Manager for Nigeria and Anglo-West Africa, Dr. Yaro will be servicing existing customers in the English-speaking countries of West Africa, including Togo and Benin Republic. 

    She will also partner with new clients and expand the company’s network across the continent. 

    READ ALSO: Epidemic looms in Lagos’ largest estate as re-commissioned water project fails

    Hadiza holds a PhD in Agronomy and studied Marketing and Food Security in diverse countries in Africa, 

    Europe, and Asia. In a press release signed by Vicente Celada, the company’s West Africa Director, I’m absolutely certain Hadiza will be a great addition to Sakata’s projects in West Africa.” 

    It is worth recalling that over the last decade, Dr. Yaro has been a thought leader, practitioner, and policy expert in agribusiness, helping East-West Seed expand its presence widely across Nigeria. 

    She has also been a staunch advocate for smallholder farmers in Northern Nigeria, presenting several papers on the impact of smallholder farmers on the country’s food security and self-sufficiency. 

    During this period, she organized several agribusiness fairs and expos that highlighted the impact of seed quality on harvests, resulting in bumper harvests of locally farmed produce that garnered media attention. 

    She also worked closely with several governors and state ministries of agriculture on ways to empower smallholder farmers and boost the agricultural produce of local farmers. 

    This Zuru-born Agronomist and agribusiness expert from Kebbi state will be expected to perform the same magic at Sakata Seeds.

    Sakata Seed is an International global company that breeds, produces, and sells high-quality flower and vegetable seeds, along with gardening materials and agricultural products. 

    With a focus on research and development, Sakata offers a wide range of horticultural varieties and has an extensive global network of offices and research stations. 

    The company also engages in related activities, such as landscaping and greenhouse construction, and serves both wholesale and retail markets.

  • Agbeyewa farms hosts Brazilian technical partners, showcases Nigeria’s Cassava revolution 

    Agbeyewa farms hosts Brazilian technical partners, showcases Nigeria’s Cassava revolution 

    Agbeyewa Farms, a leading agribusiness and subsidiary of Cavista Holdings, yesterday hosted renowned Brazilian cassava experts Mr. Pascoal D’Andrea Filho and Mr. Liviston Teles Sena on a technical visit to its large-scale cassava estates across Ipao, Gede, and Iyemero communities in Ekiti State.

    The high-level visit comes shortly after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to Brazil, where both countries deepened bilateral cooperation in agriculture, energy, and technology transfer. 

    The engagement reflects the growing importance of public–private collaboration in building sustainable food systems and advancing agricultural industrialization.

    Cassava is a versatile, gluten-free staple crop feeding hundreds of millions in Africa, Asia, and South America, while its starch and flour derivatives are used in food and industrial products across the world. 

    As demand rises globally, Nigeria (already the world’s largest producer) holds enormous potential to transform cassava into a driver of food security, job creation, and export diversification.

    In just two years, Agbeyewa Farms has cultivated over 5,000 hectares of cassava, integrating mechanized farming technology with grassroot community participation.

     This initiative is bolstering Nigeria’s food systems, creating jobs, empowering rural communities, and fueling agro-industrialization.

    Read Also: Ekiti Assembly hails Agbeyewa Farms’ cassava initiative, pledges support for agriculture

    During their tour, the Brazilian delegation, both veterans in large-scale cassava farming, processing, and mechanization, commended Agbeyewa’s vision and scale.

    “This is impressive. We came to Nigeria to meet Agbeyewa Farms, and it’s an incredible project. We have never seen so many cassavas planted in one extension area as we saw today – fields upon fields of cassava. It’s fantastic, and we must thank John for the vision and the courage to do something of this magnitude,” said Mr. Pascoal, commending Agbeyewa’s Chairman, Mr. Niyi John Olajide.

    “The future of cassava in Nigeria lies in replicating the revolution Agbeyewa is pioneering,” he added, urging increased support through partnerships, financing, and policy backing.

    On the visit, Mr. Niyi John Olajide, Chairman of Agbeyewa Farms and Cavista Holdings said: “Nigeria can be a global leader in cassava production and processing. Partnerships like this accelerate our ability to bring in world-class expertise, technology, and practices that empower our farmers, strengthen our communities, and contribute to economic growth. This is only the beginning of what we can achieve together.”

     Agbeyewa’s Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Oska Seyi Aiyeleso, described the visit as a vital platform for knowledge exchange:

    “It is my pleasure to host our friends from Brazil, who are global leaders in cassava farming. We have much to learn from their experience, and this engagement strengthens our vision to scale cassava production and deliver transformative impact across the value chain.”

    Mr. Aiyeleso also revealed that Agbeyewa’s leadership will soon undertake a reciprocal visit to Brazil to strengthen networks and draw lessons from the country’s thriving cassava industry.

    He said the collaboration directly aligns with Nigeria’s ambition to expand global agricultural partnerships and signals a bold new chapter in private-sector-led transformation of food and economic systems.

  • NCAN warns against cashew export ban

    NCAN warns against cashew export ban

    …says action may depress farmgate prices

    The National Cashew Association of Nigeria (NCAN), the apex body for cashew farmers, processors, and exporters, has rejected calls by a group of processors for restrictions on raw cashew nut exports, warning that such measures would hurt farmers and undermine government policy.

    NCAN in a statement by its president, Dr Joseph Ojo Ajanaku, stressed that cashew farmers remain the backbone of the industry, and any form of export ban or disguised restriction would depress farmgate prices and impoverish millions of smallholder farmers. 

    The association said this would directly contradict the Federal Government’s agricultural diversification and poverty reduction agenda.

    While affirming support for value addition, NCAN argued that Nigeria cannot industrialize by punishing farmers. 

    According to the group, the real barriers to processing lie in high energy costs, lack of affordable financing, and poor infrastructure not raw nut exports.

    Read Also: Cocoa, cashews boost agricultural exports

    The association noted that financing mechanisms already exist through the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), the Bank of Industry (BoI), and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) intervention funds. It proposed the creation of Special Agro-Processing Loans (SAP-Loans) at single-digit interest rates of 5% or less to make local processing more competitive.

    NCAN further warned that an export ban would violate Nigeria’s commitments under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), discourage both local and foreign investment, and encourage smuggling.

    On innovation, the association highlighted the launch of its Farmers Mapper App, designed to generate real-time agricultural data and provide a transparent planning tool for stakeholders across the cashew value chain.

    “Processors are partners, not adversaries. But industrial growth must be driven by government-backed incentives and innovation, not by punishing the very farmers who sustain Nigeria’s cashew economy.”

  • Shakara restaurant breaks into European market with global award, recognition

    Shakara restaurant breaks into European market with global award, recognition

    Nigerian born investor cum entrepreneur Osazua Bazuaye, fondly called Bazu, is steadily carving a space for Nigerian cuisine in Europe, positioning his restaurant “Shakara” as a vibrant ambassador of African culture on the international stage. With over two decades of experience in food and hospitality, Bazuaye is leveraging his passion to deliver an authentic taste of Nigeria to new audiences.

    Speaking about the milestone of expanding into Europe, Bazu described it as “a good feeling” and “a tasking opportunity to deliver on the international stage and export Nigeria’s hospitality and culture.”

     His words reflect not only excitement but also a sense of responsibility to present Nigerian traditions to a global clientele.

    Since opening in the United Kingdom, the reception has been overwhelmingly positive. 

    “Every month, we have continued to grow, grow and grow,” Bazu explained. 

    “The people are eager and happy to know about Nigerian culture, Nigerian music, and Nigerian food. It has been an interesting and positive response from everybody.” This response, he said, proves that Nigerian cuisine has universal appeal.

    Bazu’s career path reflects deep roots in hospitality. Born in Benin City, Edo State, and educated in Lagos, he studied Economics at Edo State University before pursuing further studies in London.

     “I’ve been in the food and beverage business for the past 20 years,” he recalled, “from Benin to the South-south, Abuja to Lagos. Now Europe gives me another chance to showcase our brand.”

    For him, Europe is not just another market, but a launchpad for his global vision. “Personal goals I started 20 years ago in the hospitality, food and beverage in Nigeria,” he said. 

    Read Also: Shakarau to FG: make poverty eradication centre-piece of national devt

    “The future goal to be achieved is to take Shakara, Nigerian hospitality, food and culture worldwide.” His trajectory shows a consistent focus on expansion and cultural promotion.

    He attributed part of Shakara’s growth to the presence of Nigerians in the diaspora. “Most definitely, the influx of Nigerians and Africans into Europe has helped the growth of Nigerian food being demanded in the diaspora,”  Osazee Bazuaye stated.

     According to him, Africa’s youthful population is also fueling demand for cultural exports.

    Looking forward, the founder of Shakara Restaurant says his mission remains unchanged. 

    “We just want Nigerians and Africans to keep supporting us, keep rooting for us as we take our food and our culture round the world,” said Bazu.

    With Shakara already gaining attention in the United Kingdom, his vision of a global Nigerian dining experience may soon become reality.

  • NIWRMC boss unveils reform agenda, moves to tackle water governance gaps

    NIWRMC boss unveils reform agenda, moves to tackle water governance gaps

    ‎The Executive Director of the Nigerian Integrated Water Resources Management Commission (NIWRMC), Dr. Abdulmumini Mohammed Aminu-Zaria, has unveiled a reform agenda to reposition the commission as a driver of food security, public health, and energy resilience through sustainable water governance.

    ‎Speaking after formally assuming office in Abuja, Aminu-Zaria pledged to prioritise staff welfare, overhaul outdated processes and deepen collaboration with Federal and State Governments, industries, farmers, and border communities to confront Nigeria’s growing water challenges.

    ‎“Our work is central to Nigeria’s food and energy security. This is not just a job; it is a national duty. We must replace indifference with innovation and complacency with competence,” the new NIWRMC chief declared.

    ‎He outlined immediate steps to revamp the commission’s operations, including timely promotions, staff training, modern monitoring tools, and stronger enforcement of water use regulations. His leadership, he said, would be anchored on openness, accountability, and meritocracy.

    ‎“The task ahead is demanding, but our collective potential is greater. Together, we can build a Commission that is not just functional, but exceptional,” he added.

    ‎Water governance experts note that his agenda comes at a critical moment as Nigeria grapples with climate change, population pressures, and weak infrastructure that threaten access to clean water and sustainable use of the country’s river basins.

    ‎At the official handover ceremony, the outgoing Acting Executive Director, Mrs. Sakinatu S. Abbo Jimeta, described Aminu-Zaria as a “visionary leader with a remarkable pedigree,” expressing confidence in his ability to reposition the commission.

    ‎“It is with a deep sense of honour and fulfillment that I formally hand over the leadership of the Nigerian Integrated Water Resources Management Commission to Dr. Abdulmumin Aminu-Zaria.

    ‎”This is not only a leadership transition, but a renewal of our collective resolve to strengthen Nigeria’s water governance framework and safeguard our precious resources for sustainable development,” Jimeta said.

    Read Also: Water Boards failure responsible for rampant drilling of boreholes – NIWRMC

    ‎She highlighted Aminu-Zaria’s vast experience at the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), where he played a key role in driving reforms, improving regulatory frameworks, and implementing strategic initiatives that boosted the efficiency of the petroleum industry.

    ‎“His name is well-recognized within both governmental circles and the public domain, reflecting his influence and the respect he commands as a leading figure in the industry. I have no doubt that under his leadership, the Commission will continue to thrive and deliver on its mandate for the benefit of all Nigerians,” she added.

    ‎Jimeta also thanked the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, the management, and staff of NIWRMC for their support during her stewardship, noting their collective efforts to strengthen regulatory enforcement and promote sustainable water use.

  • Fed Govt, IFDC partner to boost fertilizer access

    Fed Govt, IFDC partner to boost fertilizer access

    The Federal Government has entered into a strategic collaboration with the International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC) to improve fertilizer availability, enhance soil health, and strengthen food and nutrition security in Nigeria.

    The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, announced the partnership during a bilateral meeting with senior IFDC officials at the Africa Food System Forum held recently in Dakar, Senegal.

    Kyari said the partnership would deliver technical assistance for data-driven fertilizer recommendations, support local blending capacity, curb adulteration in the input supply chain, and promote soil health. 

    He stressed the importance of strengthening input markets, expanding last-mile delivery systems, and scaling climate-smart soil fertility practices to support smallholder farmers.

    He further highlighted the Nigeria Farmers Soil Health Scheme (NFSHS) as a flagship initiative under the Ministry, designed to transform agriculture through location- and crop-specific fertilizer recommendations.

    READ ALSO: Tinubu makes key appointments in Kano, Zaria Federal universities of education

    “A stronger partnership with IFDC will help improve soil health, ensure quality inputs reach farmers on time, and advance food security in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agricultural agenda,” Kyari stated.

     He emphasised that interventions must prioritize affordability, quality assurance, and timely delivery of inputs, especially in staple crop-producing regions, while also boosting productivity, cutting post-harvest losses, and improving livelihoods.

    Also speaking, IFDC President and Chief Executive Officer, Henk Van Deepen, said the collaboration would enhance private-sector distribution networks, promote targeted soil testing, encourage balanced nutrient use, and equip farmers with training on good agronomic practices.

     He added that evidence-based policies would be developed to strengthen competitive and transparent input markets.

  • Nu agri Asia to invest $250m in Ghana’s agric sector

    Nu agri Asia to invest $250m in Ghana’s agric sector

    Nu Agri Asia Corporation, a Philippines-based agribusiness firm, has announced plans to invest $250 million in Ghana’s agriculture sector, with a major focus on boosting sugar production.

    The investment, unveiled in a statement by Dr. Matins Abhulimhen, lead investor and president of Jose Global Consulting Limited, will be deployed across three key projects. According to him, $129 million has been earmarked for the establishment of a sugar mill capable of processing 10,000 tonnes of crushed sugarcane daily. The remaining funds will go into setting up facilities for processing one million coconuts per day and multi-fruit processing units.

    Abhulimhen explained that the initiative is a joint venture between the Government of Ghana, Nu Agri Asia Corporation, and local partner Ghanol Ltd. He described the investment as a transformative opportunity to modernize Ghana’s sugar production while expanding coconut and fruit processing for both domestic and international markets.

    “These projects will establish a globally competitive agro-industrial platform,” he said, noting that the facilities will sit on a 40-hectare site, alongside a 10-hectare solar farm for power supply. Residual bagasse from the sugarcane will also be converted to energy under environmentally controlled conditions.

    READ ALSO: Tinubu seeks NASS backing to fast-track State Police

    The raw materials, he added, will be sourced through an out-grower scheme, with farmers organized into cooperatives and offered shareholding in the venture. “This inclusiveness gives cooperative farmers both a voice and direct benefit from the project,” Abhulimhen stressed.

    Ghana’s Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Eric Opoku, lauded the investment, describing it as a boost to the economy and a step towards reducing sugar imports. He said the project would not only enable Ghana to meet local demand but also position the country to export sugar to international and regional markets.

    Nu Agri Asia also pledged a comprehensive Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) package to support host communities. The program will cover mobile healthcare services, education, agricultural training, and micro-enterprise grants.

    Beyond job creation, Abhulimhen emphasized that the projects include energy production, shipping pallet manufacturing from coconut husks, cold storage, and employee support services. He said these initiatives would significantly improve living standards in participating communities.

    Jose Global Consulting, which is facilitating the investment, has also backed a $208 million project in Ghana’s housing sector to address the country’s housing deficit. Other sectors where the company is expanding include ethanol production, quarry mining, and hotel development.