Niger State has officially entered into a multi-billion-dollar Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Republic of Benin to enhance agricultural production and food security in the region. Signed in Cotonou by Governor Umaru Bago and Nigeria’s Minister of State for Agriculture, Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, the agreement is set to boost the cultivation of cotton, maize, and soybean while strengthening cross-border cooperation between the two nations.
The MoU focuses on modernizing agriculture through mechanization, irrigation, and innovative farming techniques. Officials revealed that the partnership will initially target 20,000 hectares in its first year, gradually expanding to 450,000 hectares by 2030, with crop rotation and high-yield cultivation strategies driving growth. By leveraging Benin’s expertise in farming, Niger State aims to produce 450,000 tonnes of cotton in Borgu and dedicate over 550,000 hectares to maize and soybean production.
The project is expected to create over one million jobs across agricultural value chains and enhance soil conservation efforts. As part of the initiative, 55 technical centers will be established to train mechanics, drivers, and agronomists, while providing farmers with subsidized seeds and fertilizers. Joint research projects and improved market systems will also facilitate trade and innovation between the two countries.
Governor Umaru Bago described the MoU as “remarkable and unprecedented,” highlighting Niger State’s commitment to modernizing agriculture and improving livelihoods. Jean Patrick Yekpe, representing the Republic of Benin, emphasized a phased implementation approach to ensure sustainable production, starting small and scaling up gradually to meet ambitious output goals.
Earlier this year, Niger State deployed agricultural experts to rural communities to introduce innovative farming methods and assess greenhouse and irrigation projects. Supported by the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), Synergos Nigeria, and African Development Bank initiatives such as ATASP-1, these efforts have allowed farmers to cultivate crops up to three times annually, laying the groundwork for the new cross-border agricultural partnership.
source: nairametrics