From Leo Zwànke, Lafia
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in Nasarawa State, Hon. Muhammad Iyimoga Oyigye, has unveiled an ambitious roadmap to boost agriculture in the state, particularly through the successful management of the 10,000-hectare rice farm in Jangwa, Awe Local Government Area of Nasarawa state.
Speaking in an exclusive interview on Saturday, Iyimoga, who also oversees the Ministry of Agriculture, pledged the government’s commitment to ending hunger and ensuring food security.
“My priority is to ensure food security in Nasarawa State by supporting the agricultural vision of Governor Abdullahi Sule,” he said. “Specifically, I am focused on maximizing the potential of the Jangwa rice farm to meet the food demands of our people and contribute to the state’s economy.”
The commissioner outlined key strategies to achieve these goals, including providing farmers with necessary resources such as fertilizers, seeds, and training. He also emphasized the importance of improving storage and distribution systems to ensure food reaches markets and households promptly.
“Governor Sule’s target is clear: to ensure that no family in Nasarawa State goes hungry,” Iyimoga stated. “We are working to create a peaceful and conducive environment for agricultural activities while addressing the challenges faced by farmers.”
Addressing complaints from Tiv farmers about alleged land disputes and unauthorized harvesting, Iyimoga reassured stakeholders of the government’s dedication to fairness and transparency.
“I understand the concerns raised by some Tiv farmers, and I want to assure them that the government is committed to resolving any genuine issues,” he said. “Having lived among the Tiv community for many years, I consider myself one of them. However, some of these claims appear baseless and aimed at creating confusion.”
He added: “Let me be clear: only a mad person would harvest what doesn’t belong to the state or the rightful owners. Our focus is to ensure everyone benefits from agricultural initiatives without conflict.”
Highlighting the achievements of Governor Abdullahi Sule’s administration, Iyimoga praised the governor’s commitment to revolutionizing agriculture in Nasarawa State.
“The governor’s performance has been outstanding,” he noted. “His policies have equipped farmers with the tools and resources needed to succeed. We have also seen a drastic reduction in farmer-herder clashes, which has allowed communities to focus on farming without fear.”
Iyimoga outlined his long-term vision for agriculture, which aligns with the governor’s broader goals.
“We want to make Nasarawa a leading agricultural hub in Nigeria,” he said. “This includes expanding mechanized farming, supporting smallholder farmers to transition to commercial farming, investing in irrigation systems, and promoting value addition through agro-processing to create jobs and increase farmers’ incomes.”
The commissioner urged farmers and residents to work together to achieve the state’s agricultural ambitions.
“I want to encourage our farmers to remain committed and hardworking,” he said. “The government is here to support you. Governor Sule’s administration is determined to create opportunities for all farmers to succeed. Agriculture thrives in an atmosphere of peace and cooperation.”
Iyimoga concluded with a call for collective effort, stating, “Let’s work together to achieve the governor’s vision of a food-secure Nasarawa State.”
This renewed focus on agriculture under Governor Sule’s leadership is expected to further position Nasarawa as a key player in Nigeria’s agricultural sector. He added.
