Niger State Government has signed a strategic pact with AfricRice Farm Centre in Bouake, Côte d’Ivoire, worth over $1.2 billion to boost rice production in the state.

This partnership aims to increase the state’s annual paddy rice output from 1.5 million metric tons to 10 million metric tons by 2030.

The agreement involves a 5,000-hectare breeder, foundation, and certified seeds farm to be established to produce 25,000 tons of highest quality seeds for cultivation on 500,000 hectares, comprising new modern commercial farms on 100,000 hectares and micro, small, and medium-sized rice farms on 40,000 hectares across the state, employing over 100,000 persons of rice farms to produce 10 million tons per annum by 2030.

AfricaRice, a notable member of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research CGIAR, will deploy experts and technology, as well as bring global development partners to Niger State to support this project.

Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, described the partnership as a milestone initiative that reaffirms government’s commitment to achieving rice self-sufficiency, enhancing food security, and promoting sustainable economic growth.

The Niger governor expressed confidence that the partnership with Africa Rice will deepen the transformation efforts of his administration and position the state as a rice production powerhouse, contributing significantly to Nigeria and Africa’s food security architecture.

The governor maintained that with collaborations, innovations, investments, and inclusive policies, Africa can build a future where it will not only feed itself but also the world.

Governor Umaru Bago and his entourage toured the rice farms of AfricaRice, where he was impressed with the level of their commitment to rice production.

The management of AfricaRice commended farmer governor Mohammed Umaru Bago for his remarkable strides in agricultural development in Niger state and Nigeria as a whole.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.

Published Date: July 25, 2025