Liberia's Deputy Minister of Agriculture Embarks on Study Tour of Jigawa State's Rice Value Chain

Strategic Insights -

Liberia's Deputy Minister of Agriculture, David Akoi, recently visited Jigawa State in Nigeria's northwest for a study tour focused on rice production. As Liberia struggles to become self-sufficient in rice production, Akoi's team aims to learn from Jigawa's expertise in rice cultivation, value chain management, and innovative agricultural practices. Jigawa, with its lead in rice production in Nigeria, is poised to become a key player in transforming Liberia's rice sector.

Key Takeaways:

  • Liberia imports 70% of its rice consumption, and the government aims to produce at least 70% of its needs.
  • David Akoi, Liberia's Deputy Minister of Agriculture, led a study tour to Jigawa State to learn from its rice value chain management and innovative agricultural practices.
  • Jigawa State has significantly increased its rice cultivation from 60,000-70,000 hectares in 2023 to 200,000 hectares in 2024, and targets 300,000 hectares this year.
  • The state government aims to produce 50% of Nigeria's rice needs by 2030.
  • Jigawa State is implementing agricultural programs and innovative practices to combat climate change, including shifting from rain-fed to irrigation farming and revamping existing irrigation dams.
  • The state has purchased 300 new tractors, 60 combined harvesters, and 150 planters to enhance rice and other crops farming.
  • Smallholder farmers in Jigawa's 30 constituencies have access to subsidized hire services for tractors.

Statistics:

  • Liberia consumes 70% of its rice imports.
  • Jigawa State's rice cultivation has increased from 60,000-70,000 hectares in 2023 to 200,000 hectares in 2024.
  • The state aims for 300,000 hectares of rice cultivation this year.
  • Jigawa targets producing 50% of Nigeria's rice needs by 2030.
  • The state has bought 300 new tractors, 60 combined harvesters, and 150 planters.

Sources:

  • The Guardian Nigeria
  • Note: The original text does not provide exact dates for some events, so no dates were added to the sources.