Chris Awhawha
The Niger State chapter of the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN), Zone B, has called on the state government to provide necessary farming machinery and inputs for its members as they prepare for dry season farming.
This appeal was made by Malam. Mohammed Abubakar (SP Rtd,the chairman of Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (UP- RIFAN), Zone B, during a press conference organized by the association’s leadership in Bosso Local Government Area.
Malam Abubakar expressed concerns that the state’s agricultural support programs, designed to aid small-scale farmers, were not reaching the intended beneficiaries as promised by Niger State Agricultural Mechanization Development Agency (NAMDA)
He pointed out that the recent initiative faced significant challenges as farmers did not receive necessary inputs like seeds and fertilizers in time for the farming season.
“The delays have caused setbacks for our farmers, many of whom are now losing hope in the government’s ability to support them,” Malam Abubakar said.
He added that communication between the farmers and the Niger State Agricultural and Mechanization Development Agency (NAMDA), responsible for coordinating the program, has been poor, leading to a breakdown in trust.
“What we need is the assurance that materials will be provided in time for the upcoming dry season farming, so that our members can regain their confidence in the process,”he stated.
In response, Alhaji Mohammed Ali-Baba, the Managing Director of NAMDA, acknowledged the delays but assured farmers that efforts are being made to resolve the issues. According to him, the agency has been working closely with stakeholders to address the challenges and better inform the farmers about the situation.
“We are collaborating with private entities to ensure that the government’s agricultural program benefits farmers and contributes to the state’s green economic development,” Alhaji said. He also promised that farmers who missed out on the first batch of inputs due to technical challenges will receive their supplies for the dry season.
The Niger State government’s agricultural program is intended to boost the productivity of small-scale farmers and enhance the state’s economy through sustainable agricultural practices.
However, he noted that the success of this initiative depends on timely support and transparent communication between all involved parties.
The rice farmers in Zone B remain hopeful that the government will address their concerns as the dry season approaches.
He however, implored the farmers to continue to build their trust in the present administration of Farmer governor Umar Mohammed Bago determination to Support their cause in transforming the Agricultural revolution through the Provision of farm implements to ensure food Security in the state.