Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi has overseen the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to allocate up to 100,000 hectares of land for the large-scale production of alfalfa, a high-protein nutrient grass essential for livestock grazing. This significant commitment marks one of the largest alfalfa production initiatives in Africa and is central to the state’s economic development plan.
The MoU, signed with a consortium of investors including NEXIM Bank, MOFI, and private-sector partners like Matura Farm, aims to transform livestock development in the state. Governor Namadi, who described agriculture as the backbone of the state’s economy, stressed that the project will significantly enhance the Maigatari livestock market, which is one of the largest in Africa.
The initiative directly aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agenda to achieve food security through expanded agricultural production. Experts, including the Commissioner for Livestock Development, Professor Salim Mohammed, noted that growing alfalfa is a “game-changing opportunity.” It is expected to boost milk production, improve meat quality, and significantly reduce conflicts often associated with traditional open grazing by providing a stable, high-quality feed source.
Furthermore, the multi-billion-naira project is projected to generate substantial youth employment across cultivation, processing, and marketing stages, cementing Jigawa’s position as a leader in agricultural production and a secure hub for investment.
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