Kaduna: Kaduna State Government and the United Nations have signed a Technical Cooperation Project, through the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), to address food security and leverage its potentials in agriculture. The project also seeks to support smallholder farmers to address hunger, malnutrition and stimulate an inclusive socio-economic growth in the state.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Technical Cooperation Project, titled ‘Smart Tomato Value Chain Enhancement through Sustainable Practices for Livelihood Improvement in Kaduna State’, was signed at the Council Chambers of Sir Kashim Ibrahim House on Thursday. Speaking earlier, Gov. Uba Sani said the state holds great potential for Nigeria’s food security as the leading producer of many agricultural produce, including ginger, maize, soybeans, tomato and sorghum, among others.
The Governor noted that agriculture accounts for more than 51 per cent of the state’s GDP while it employs more than 70 per cent of its population. Sani highlighted that it is mostly youths that make up nearly half of the over 10 million population of Kaduna State, which is blessed with favourable climatic conditions supporting a vast array of agricultural produce and year-round activities. He emphasized the state’s leading role in tomato production and expressed hope that the new partnership would enhance its status as a major producer in Nigeria and West Africa.
Sani explained that agriculture is the primary source of income for most residents, and this led to the allocation of about N74 billion or 9.3 per cent of the 2025 budget towards agriculture, aligning with the 2014 Malabo Declaration of 10 per cent budgetary allocation to agriculture. He pointed out that this budgetary allocation demonstrates the administration’s commitment to food security and sustainable livelihoods. However, he acknowledged that accelerating agricultural growth and transformation is capital-intensive, thus welcoming the opportunity to partner with FAO.
In his remarks, FAO Country Representative Koffy Dominique affirmed the organisation’s commitment to strengthening the entire tomato value chain with a focus on addressing production challenges, post-harvest issues, and strengthening cooperatives. Dominique stated that FAO would enhance production techniques to improve yields and quality, reduce post-harvest losses, and promote infrastructure development. He underscored that Kaduna State has the capacity to become a powerhouse in agricultural production, value addition, and food security for the nation and the continent.
Dominique added that the signing ceremony represents more than just an agreement; it marks a milestone in the shared journey toward sustainable development, job creation, and inclusive economic growth. He commended Governor Sani for his leadership in fostering collaboration and creating an enabling environment for development.
