In a move to strengthen agricultural development through regional collaboration, officials from the Kaduna State Ministry of Agriculture have visited Niger State on a peer learning tour aimed at studying the state’s agricultural policies, coordination mechanisms, and successes despite ongoing security challenges.
Leading the Kaduna delegation, Afonu Grace Giaya, Director of Administration and Finance in the ministry, said the visit was spurred by Niger’s impressive progress in agriculture.
“Kaduna is growing fast in agriculture, but we believe there’s always more to learn. Niger State has made notable strides, and we want to tap into that knowledge, especially in managing agricultural activities in the face of insecurity,” she said.
Giaya noted that the team was particularly interested in Niger’s approach to rice and maize production, coordination with partners, and the role of government in sustaining agricultural programs.
“After this visit, we plan to submit a detailed memo to the Governor of Kaduna State, highlighting lessons learnt and ways we can improve agriculture back home,” she added.
Victor Adejo, Country Director of Synergos, the technical partner supporting both states, said the visit reflects a growing commitment to inter-state collaboration.
“Niger and Kaduna share borders and agricultural potentials. This partnership, supported by AGRA, focuses on reviewing and activating inclusive policies, particularly gender-responsive ones, to improve smallholder farmers’ incomes and livelihoods,” he explained.
Adejo said the project adopts a performance-based approach, monitoring how states meet their commitments under operational and implementation plans.
“We are looking at how governments walk the talk. This initiative is about accountability, results, and impact,” he said.
Niger State’s Commissioner for Agriculture, Musa Bawa Bosso reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to transforming agriculture into an economic powerhouse.
“The Governor has made agriculture a business in Niger. Through mechanization, value chain development, and strong private sector involvement, we’ve turned agriculture into a career path for many,” he said.
He welcomed the Kaduna delegation, saying the exchange would benefit both states.
“We are happy to share our experiences from contract farming and mechanization to value chain partnerships. It’s all part of building a stronger agricultural future for our region,” he added.
During the tour, the Kaduna team is expected to visit farmlands, agro-processing centers, and meet with stakeholders working across Niger’s agricultural value chains.
