The National Agricultural Seed Council (NASC), with support from Feed the Future Nigeria Integrated Agriculture Activity (NIAA), has inaugurated 43 Community-Based Seed Entrepreneur (CBSE) cooperatives in Adamawa State. These cooperatives have been certified to produce quality seeds for farmers in the region.
Speaking at the certificate presentation ceremony in Yola on Tuesday, Chief of Party NIAA, Prakash Silwa, emphasized the importance of the certification process. Silwa, represented by his deputy, Kayode Faleti, stated that this initiative is part of ongoing efforts to transform agriculture in the North-East.
He noted that a total of 122 cooperatives across the implementing states of Borno, Gombe, and Yobe have been certified to produce high-quality seeds. This certification ensures that smallholder farmers in these states will have access to locally produced, affordable, and high-quality seeds, reducing their dependence on supplies from other parts of the country.
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Silwa encouraged the newly certified entrepreneurs to adhere strictly to the guidelines for producing certified seeds to ensure the highest standards.
Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the partners in positively impacting agriculture in the state. Represented by the Commissioner for Agriculture, Prof. David Jatau, Fintiri urged the entrepreneurs to continue producing quality seeds and assured them of the government’s readiness to support their endeavors. He also announced that the state government has ordered the supply of 120,000 kilograms of rice seeds in preparation for this year’s dry season farming, aimed at improving food security in Adamawa.
Dr. Khalid Ishiak, Acting Director-General of NASC, highlighted the significance of the certification in ensuring the sustainable production of quality seeds for farmers. Represented by Dr. Zidafamor Timmy, Director of Seed Coordination and Management Services in Abuja, Ishiak urged the entrepreneurs to engage actively in seed production and warned against adulteration, noting that it is a serious offense under seed law.
Baba Sahabo, Chairman of the Adamawa Community-Based Seed Entrepreneurs, expressed gratitude to the partners for the opportunity and assured them that the cooperatives would consistently produce quality seeds for farmers in the state.
All 43 cooperatives were presented with their certificates during the ceremony.
