The Federal Government has lauded the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for its ₦72 billion (12 billion Japanese Yen) emergency loan to boost Nigeria’s agricultural sector under the National Agricultural Growth Scheme and Agro-Pocket (NAGS-AP).
Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, disclosed this during a meeting with a JICA delegation led by Director-General Takao Shimokawa in Abuja. He stated that the funds would be deployed to:
- Enhance rice seed quality,
- Improve farm input delivery,
- Strengthen extension services, and
- Boost private sector involvement in agricultural input production.
Focus on Rice Production & Climate Resilience
The minister highlighted that the rice seed production initiative, anchored at the National Cereal Research Institute (NCRI) in Badeggi, Niger State, aims to develop high-yield, disease-resistant rice varieties capable of withstanding climate challenges.
“We are collaborating with the National Agricultural Seed Council (NASC) to improve the seed ecosystem,” Kyari said. He also noted that technology-driven extension services, including mobile apps for real-time weather and market updates, will empower farmers.
JICA’s Long-Standing Partnership
The minister recalled JICA’s Smallholder Horticulture Empowerment and Promotion (SHEP) project (2020–2024), which benefited farmers in 14 states, including Nasarawa, Benue, Osun, and Kebbi. He described the initiative as a bridge between research and practical farming.
Minister of State for Agriculture, Senator Abdullahi Sabi Aliyu, reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s stance: “Plant the right seed, and you can feed the nation.” He stressed that quality seeds remain pivotal to solving Nigeria’s food security challenges.
JICA Reaffirms Commitment
JICA’s Director-General, Takao Shimokawa, confirmed the first loan disbursement and assured continued support for Nigeria’s food security goals. He announced an upcoming grant for rice production machinery, with procurement set to begin soon.
“JICA remains fully committed to Nigeria’s agricultural growth,” Shimokawa stated, emphasizing Nigeria’s role as Africa’s largest rice producer.
Conclusion
The partnership between Nigeria and JICA seeks to foster a sustainable, resilient agricultural system, ensuring long-term food security and economic stability.
