Nasarawa State has announced ambitious plans to significantly contribute to Nigeria's rice supply with a targeted harvest of 1.2 million bags from its major farming operations. Governor Abdullahi Sule revealed this development during his inspection of the ongoing harvest activities across the state's agricultural projects.
Massive Harvest Already Underway
Governor Sule confirmed that more than 600,000 bags of rice have already been harvested within the first two weeks of operations. This impressive output represents approximately half of the total expected yield from the current farming season. The harvesting exercise is projected to continue for another two weeks across the cultivated areas.
The large-scale government-owned farm spans the boundary between Awe and Obi local government areas, covering significant portions of Jangwa and Agwatashi regions. According to the governor's statement, the state government has successfully cultivated 3,300 hectares out of the 10,000 hectares originally earmarked for the comprehensive rice project.
Strategic Partnerships and Brand Development
In a strategic move to enhance value addition, Nasarawa State has entered into a partnership with Silvex International, a prominent rice processing company. This collaboration will see the harvested rice processed and marketed under the Nasarawa Agro-Commodity Company (NASACCO) brand, specifically launching as "NASACCO Gold" in the market.
Governor Sule emphasized that this branding initiative aims to improve the market visibility of Nasarawa-grown rice while simultaneously supporting Nigeria's broader food security objectives. "We will soon launch the NASACCO rice in Abuja after the harvest and milling of this year's produce," the governor announced during his farm inspection.
Expansion Plans and Economic Impact
Transportation of paddy rice to processing facilities in Abuja and Lokoja, Kogi State has already commenced, signaling the advanced stage of the agricultural initiative. The governor further disclosed that clearing operations for the remaining unused farmland would begin immediately after the current harvest season concludes.
This preparatory work aims to ensure readiness for the next planting cycle, with plans to expand cultivation areas significantly. Governor Sule highlighted that structures are being established to sustain the project beyond his administration, recognizing its substantial potential to create employment opportunities, enhance food production capacity, and stimulate economic activities throughout the agricultural value chain.
The governor expressed appreciation to host communities, security agencies, implementation partners, state officials, and farm workers for their contributions throughout the farming season. He noted that this agricultural initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu's comprehensive agricultural transformation agenda for Nigeria.
This development in Nasarawa State coincides with the federal government's recent approval of a N250 billion credit facility for smallholder farmers and rural communities, as ordered by Vice President Kashim Shettima through the Presidential Food Coordinating Unit.
