Niger State To Lower Food Prices Ahead of Ramadan, Strengthens Partnership with Gates Foundation
In a bid to make life easier for its citizens during Ramadan and beyond, the Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago, has announced plans to reduce food prices, to ensure affordability for residents.
He made this commitment during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the Gates Foundation at the Government House in Minna.
Governor Bago highlighted the state’s agricultural strides, revealing a successful harvest of over one million metric tons of maize. Through Niger Foods, he noted that the state has played a key role in stabilising food prices nationwide.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to agricultural development, the governor urged the Gates Foundation to deepen its partnership with Niger State in areas such as crops and livestock production, aquaculture, and housing.
He also reiterated his ambitious plan to transition from one cropping season to three annually, emphasising irrigation as a crucial tool for boosting food production and tackling climate change.
Obai Khalifa, the Gates Foundation’s leader of agricultural development, acknowledged agriculture’s vital role in food security and nutrition while noting challenges like underfunding and climate change.
He assured continued support for Nigeria’s agricultural transformation.
Senior Programme Officer, Audu Grema, praised Governor Bago’s agricultural investments, citing their potential to alleviate poverty.
Meanwhile, Niger Foods Chairman, Sammy Adigun, described the collaboration with the Gates Foundation as a crucial step in achieving the governor’s vision for agricultural transformation.
With these initiatives, Niger State is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable food production.
