FG Distributes Improved Seeds to Farmers Amid Rainfall Delays

On Thursday, the Federal Government of Nigeria initiated the nationwide distribution of Renewed Hope agricultural seeds to assist farmers affected by delayed rainfall and seed shortages. The launch took place in Jigawa State, led by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari.

This initiative, approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, aims to provide improved seeds to farmers within the remaining planting window. Kyari highlighted the significant losses suffered by farmers due to irregular rainfall, which followed early rains, leading to crop failures.

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency had warned of potential dry spells lasting up to 21 days between June and August, a forecast that largely occurred. Each participating state will receive specific quantities of certified cowpea, groundnut, and sesame seeds, with about 5,000 smallholder farming households in Jigawa expected to benefit from the first phase.

The seeds are certified by the National Agricultural Seed Council, ensuring quality and combating counterfeit seeds, as part of a broader strategy to enhance Nigeria's seed system under the National Agricultural Technology and Innovation Policy.