The Kebbi State Project Management Unit (SPMU) today hosted a significant meeting with the Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC) Kebbi State Office, which was led by the esteemed Malam Surajo Dan Alkali. This gathering also featured the presence of the NEPC Zonal Coordinator for the North West, Hajiya Amina Abdulmalik. This meeting is an integral part of the ongoing cooperative efforts between the Agro-Climate Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project and the NEPC, focusing on export promotion activities and enhancing value addition throughout the agricultural value chain within Kebbi State.
The collaboration between ACReSAL and NEPC is aimed at boosting the region’s economic growth by promoting agricultural exports, which are a crucial component of Kebbi State’s economy. By focusing on value addition, these efforts seek to improve the quality and marketability of agricultural products, thereby increasing their competitiveness in international markets. This initiative aligns with Nigeria’s broader economic diversification strategy, which seeks to reduce reliance on oil exports and bolster the agricultural sector.
The meeting included an insightful tour of the pilot sites dedicated to date palm cultivation and orchards, led by the State Project Coordinator. This provided an excellent opportunity to observe firsthand the innovative agricultural practices being implemented in these areas. In addition, the project has introduced a pilot technique for sack farming, specifically focusing on the cultivation of yam, as well as sweet and Irish potatoes. This method involves growing these crops in sacks filled with soil and nutrients, allowing for efficient use of space and resources, particularly in urban or land-limited environments. Such techniques have the potential to significantly increase crop yields and enhance food security, offering a promising solution for small-scale farmers looking to maximize their agricultural output.
The significance of this meeting is underscored by the potential it holds for local farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs. By engaging in export promotion activities, these stakeholders can access new markets and increase their revenue streams. Furthermore, the collaboration supports capacity-building initiatives, providing training and resources to help farmers improve their production techniques and meet international standards for exports.
Agriculture contributed 24.17% to nominal GDP of Nigeria in the fourth quarter of 2021, with Kebbi State playing a vital role due to its agricultural prowess. The state’s fertile lands and favorable climate conditions make it an ideal hub for producing a variety of crops such as rice, millet, and sorghum. By focusing on enhancing the value chain, the collaboration aims to leverage these strengths and position Kebbi State as a leading player in the global agricultural market.
The partnership between ACReSAL and NEPC represents a promising step towards sustainable economic development in Kebbi State. By fostering export promotion and value addition, this initiative not only benefits the local economy but also contributes to Nigeria’s overall growth and stability.
Awwal Hassan Wara
Commnications Officer
ACReSAL Kebbi SPMU
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