Federal Government Bolsters Food Security with Jangwa Rice Farm Initiative

The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s food security, promoting economic diversification, and creating employment opportunities—particularly for youth and women—through large-scale agricultural development.

Speaking during a visit to the 1,300-hectare Jangwa Rice Farm in Awe Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, outlined the project’s strategic importance. According to him, the initiative is not just about boosting rice production—it is also a cornerstone of Nigeria’s plan to reduce reliance on imported food, save foreign exchange, and stimulate rural economies.

The Jangwa Rice Farm, a public-private partnership involving the Nasarawa State Government and private agribusiness stakeholders, is being equipped with high-quality seeds supplied by Olam and modern mechanized farming equipment. With improved irrigation systems, storage facilities, and processing units, the farm is expected to produce thousands of metric tonnes of rice annually, cutting deep into Nigeria’s rice import bill, which currently runs into billions of naira every year.

Governor Abdullahi Sule emphasized that beyond agriculture, the project serves as a crime prevention tool—engaging idle youth, empowering women, and building a sustainable agricultural value chain. He added that the state is also using the opportunity to position itself as a leading producer of rice and sesame, two of Nigeria’s most sought-after crops both locally and internationally.

If fully implemented, the project could stimulate ancillary businesses such as transportation, packaging, agro-processing, and export, providing a multiplier effect on the state’s economy.