The Federal Government has declared its ambition to achieve an estimated 472,000 metric tonnes of wheat production at the conclusion of the wheat production program’s implementation period.
Mr. Ishaku Buba, National Project Coordinator for the National Agricultural Growth Scheme and Agro Pocket (NAGS-AP), disclosed this objective at the NAGS-AP Stakeholders Review and Planning meeting held on Thursday in Abuja. Buba outlined that the target was established with an average yield of four metric tonnes per hectare across the 15 wheat-producing states, including Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Katsina, Niger, Plateau, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, and Zamfara.
The stakeholders assembled to evaluate the implementation of the 2023/2024 dry season wheat production in these states, considering their respective comparative advantages. The meeting also served as a preparatory session to strategize for the second phase of rice, maize, and cassava production.
Buba clarified that the 2023/2024 dry season program, executed through the National Agricultural Growth Scheme and Agro Pocket (NAGS-AP) project, focused on four major crops: wheat, rice, maize, and cassava. The program commenced with wheat production in the 15 wheat-producing states due to the specific planting window of the crop. “The implementation under the 2023/2024 dry season program was then designed to be carried out in two phases (i.e., wheat value chain from Nov. 15, 2023, to Dec.15, 2023, later extended to Dec. 20, 2023, for Jigawa and Borno, while rice, maize, and cassava value chains were slated for January to February,” he explained.
As of December 21, 2023, Buba reported that out of the targeted 123,000 hectares, 118,657 hectares were redeemed, representing a 96.47% achievement. The goal is to realize approximately 472,000 metric tonnes of wheat product at an average yield of 4 metric tons per hectare by the end of the wheat production program.
Acknowledging challenges during the program, including network interruptions and limited SMS message releases, Buba highlighted the need for improved communication. Mrs. Oluwatoyin Alade, Acting Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, commended the dedication and hard work of those involved in the program. She acknowledged the success achieved with a 97% redemption rate but noted challenges such as round-tripping and negative profit-seeking elements within various ranks.
Mr. Azeez Olumuyiwa, a representative of the African Development Bank (AfDB), conveyed a goodwill message, assuring continued support for the NAGS-AP project.
(NAN)