Kwara Rising

Category: Agriculture

  • Kwara State Advances Agricultural Innovation with Pilot Soil Assessment Laboratory

    Kwara State Advances Agricultural Innovation with Pilot Soil Assessment Laboratory

    … Governor AbdulRazaq’s Administration Prioritizes Data-Driven Farming for Higher Yields and Sustainability

    Kwara State has taken a significant step toward modernizing agriculture with the installation of a pilot Soil Assessment Laboratory at the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ilorin. This initiative, launched under the Nigerian Farmers’ Soil Health Card Scheme (NFSHCS) and spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, positions Kwara among the leading states leveraging scientific advancements to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability.

    With the planting season approaching, the laboratory will provide farmers with accurate soil analyses, enabling them to make informed decisions on fertilizer use, crop selection, and land management. By understanding their soil’s specific nutrient needs, farmers can increase yields, reduce costs, and improve overall farm efficiency, leading to greater profitability and long-term sustainable practices.

    The establishment of the Soil Assessment Laboratory aligns with the Kwara State Agricultural Transformation Plan, which prioritizes scientific soil testing, precision fertilization, and sustainable land-use practices. The government aims to ensure that farmers boost their productivity while preserving soil health for future generations.

    The Honorable Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Afees Abolore Alabi, described the initiative as a game-changer for farmers, emphasizing that the facility will provide critical soil health information to help them adopt better farming techniques. He added that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq remains committed to driving agricultural innovations that enhance food security and economic prosperity in Kwara State.

    “This Soil Assessment Laboratory will empower farmers with the knowledge and resources needed to improve yields and enhance productivity. The state government remains dedicated to advancing agricultural innovation and ensuring that farmers have access to the best tools and scientific support,” Dr. Afees Abolore Alabi stated.

    This initiative places Kwara at the forefront of agricultural transformation in Nigeria, demonstrating how scientific innovation can drive food security, economic growth, and sustainable farming practices. The state government remains committed to empowering farmers, promoting efficient resource utilization, and positioning Kwara as a model for modern, technology-driven agriculture.

  • Kwara State Government Expands Agricultural Opportunities for Students

    Kwara State Government Expands Agricultural Opportunities for Students

    … Initiative Aims to Equip Youths with Practical Skills for Food Security and Economic Growth

    The Kwara State Government, under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq CON, is intensifying efforts to empower students with agricultural skills, resources, and opportunities to enhance self-sufficiency and economic development.

    As part of this vision, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Afees Abolore Alabi, reaffirmed the government’s commitment during a meeting with the Senior Special Assistant on Student Affairs, Hon. Wasiu Onidugbe, at his office yesterday. Their discussions centered on integrating students into the state’s agricultural development agenda as a strategic approach to boosting food production and creating sustainable career pathways.

    The initiative is a key component of the Kwara Next Generation Farmers programme, which falls under Pillar 5 (Value Chain) of the Kwara State Agricultural Transformation Plan. This program aims to nurture a new generation of agripreneurs while strengthening the agricultural value chain in the state.

    Dr. Abolore highlighted the government’s plan to equip students with practical farming skills before they graduate, ensuring they are well-prepared to contribute to the agricultural sector. As part of this strategy, cluster farming will be introduced to provide hands-on experience, alongside a reward system to encourage dedication and excellence among participants.

    “Our youths are the future of agriculture in Kwara. By engaging them early, we are not only securing food production but also creating viable career paths in the sector,” Dr. Abolore stated.

    Hon. Wasiu Onidugbe commended the Commissioner’s vision and emphasized the importance of structured training programs for students. He assured full support in ensuring the initiative’s success, recognizing its potential to transform the lives of young people and contribute to the state’s economic prosperity.

    As Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq continues to drive policies that uplift communities and promote sustainable development, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development remains committed to fostering agricultural innovation and expanding economic opportunities for students and youths in Kwara State.

  • Kwara Govt Trains Livestock Farmers on Fodder Production, Value Addition

    Kwara Govt Trains Livestock Farmers on Fodder Production, Value Addition

    … Initiative Capable of Addressing Farmers/Herders’ Clashes

    The Kwara State Government has successfully concluded a five-day training program aimed at equipping 100 livestock farmers and value chain actors with skills in commercial fodder production and value addition.

    The capacity-building initiative, organized under the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES)—a World Bank-assisted program—was facilitated by the Centre for Dryland Agriculture, Bayero University Kano (BUK) in collaboration with S G Imperial Concept Limited. The training took place at the Agricultural and Rural Management Training Institute (ARMTI), Kabba-Owode, Ifelodun LGA, Kwara State.

    At the closing ceremony, State Project Coordinator, Mr. Olusoji Oyawoye, represented by Project Extension Officer, Mr. Nureni AbdulRasaq, emphasized the program’s potential to enhance food security, improve farmers’ livelihoods, and mitigate farmers/herders’ conflicts by providing a sustainable alternative for livestock feeding.

    “Fodder production addresses the competition between humans and animals for food. By training farmers to engage in fodder production, we create employment, reduce farmer-herder conflicts, and ensure pastoralists have a steady feed source for their livestock,” he explained.
    Dr. Akeem Ajeigbe, the lead facilitator from CDA, projected that with Nigeria’s population expected to hit 300 million in the next 25 years, the country must mechanize, intensify, and commercialize agriculture to ensure food security. He highlighted that the participants were trained in both theoretical and practical aspects of fodder production, including processing crop residues and forest trees into livestock feed.

    One of the beneficiaries, Mallam Abdulraheem Yahaya Onikpe, a retired federal civil servant, described the training as highly beneficial, enabling farmers to feed their livestock at a lower cost. He expressed gratitude to the Kwara State Government and its partners for investing in the future of livestock farming.

  • Governor AbdulRazaq Launches 2025 Kwara Agro Inputs Fair to Boost Food Security

    Governor AbdulRazaq Launches 2025 Kwara Agro Inputs Fair to Boost Food Security

    …. State Government Reaffirms Commitment to Agricultural Transformation

    KwaraRising

    The Kwara State Government has officially launched the 2025 Agro Inputs Fair, a five-day event aimed at enhancing food security, supporting farmers, and transforming the agricultural sector. The initiative, organized by the Kwara Agricultural Development Project (KWADP) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, provides early access to high-quality inputs at affordable prices, mechanization support, training, climate advisory, and market linkages.

    Speaking at the event, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who was represented by Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi, emphasized the importance of agricultural innovation and knowledge-sharing in improving food production. He stated that the fair is not just about distributing agricultural inputs but about driving innovation, fostering knowledge exchange, and providing solutions that will significantly enhance agricultural productivity. He reaffirmed that Kwara is not merely participating in Nigeria’s agricultural transformation but is leading the charge, with a clear goal of achieving greater yields, lower food prices, and a thriving, self-sufficient agricultural economy.

    The Governor recalled that Kwara recorded the lowest food inflation rate in the country for three consecutive months last year, according to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) report of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). He attributed this achievement to his administration’s strategic policies and investments in agriculture, praising local farmers for their dedication in complementing government efforts to improve food production and security.

    The Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Hon. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, noted that the Agro Inputs Fair is designed to equip farmers with the necessary tools, knowledge, and resources to maximize their productivity and profitability. She emphasized that the government remains committed to strengthening the agricultural sector through mechanization, the provision of extension services, distribution of inputs, ensuring the availability of tractors for local governments, and providing support for dry-season farming.

    She further highlighted that beyond offering discounted fertilizers, seeds, and agrochemicals, the fair would provide practical workshops on modern farming techniques, pest control, and post-harvest management. She added that farmers will also benefit from NiMET’s climate advisory, security insights to protect their investments, and market expansion opportunities through the outgrowers scheme. She urged all participants to take full advantage of these initiatives to improve their farming operations and productivity.

    The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Mrs. Funke Sokoya, encouraged attendees to leverage the available opportunities and apply the knowledge gained to enhance their agricultural practices. She noted that the fair is a significant step towards ensuring that farmers are well-equipped to meet the challenges of modern agriculture and contribute to the overall development of the state’s economy.

    The Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Umar Mahmud Aboki, commended Governor AbdulRazaq for his administration’s unwavering support for farmers and its continuous efforts to advance the agricultural sector. He stated that the fair was proof of the government’s commitment to empowering farmers and creating an enabling environment for agricultural growth.

    Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers in attendance, the Elerin of Adanla, Oba Dr. David Oyerinola Adedunmoye, described the fair as a timely and impactful initiative that would contribute significantly to rural development and economic growth. He praised the government’s vision in ensuring that farmers have access to necessary inputs and support to enhance their livelihoods.

    The event was attended by key government officials, including Hon. Gideon Saba, Chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture; Hon. Musa Kareem, House Member representing Patigi Constituency; Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo Kawu, Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development; Hon. Aliyu Kora Sabi, Commissioner for Planning and Economic Development; and Dr. Segun Ogunsola, Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development. Local government chairmen, traditional rulers, and representatives of various farmers’ associations were also present at the event.

    With the launch of the 2025 Agro Inputs Fair, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration continues to prioritize food security, agricultural sustainability, and economic empowerment for farmers across Kwara State. The fair is expected to have a lasting impact on the agricultural sector, further positioning Kwara as a leader in innovative and sustainable farming practices.

  • Kwara Government Urges Farmers to Adopt Climate-Smart Agriculture for Better Yields

    Kwara Government Urges Farmers to Adopt Climate-Smart Agriculture for Better Yields

    …Governor AbdulRazaq Prioritizes Sustainable Farming for Food Security and Economic Growth

    The Kwara State Government has once again called on farmers to embrace climate-smart agricultural technologies to improve productivity and mitigate losses caused by unpredictable weather patterns. This charge was given by the Project Coordinator of the Kwara Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) Project, Engr. Dr. Busari Toyin Isiaka, during a workshop for Women’s Agricultural Cooperatives and Women’s Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) on climate-smart agricultural practices. The event was held in Igbaja, Ifelodun Local Government Area as part of the government’s efforts to promote sustainable farming across the state.

    Dr. Busari emphasized that many of the losses suffered by farmers today result from noncompliance with modern, climate-adaptive agricultural techniques. He stated that the government is intensifying awareness campaigns to ensure that Kwara farmers adopt sustainable farming methods to avert losses and increase food production.

    He further explained that the timing of the workshop was strategic, as the planting season is fast approaching. “This initiative is a crucial part of the SAPZ program, and farmers must apply the knowledge gained here to boost their productivity,” he said.

    The SAPZ Coordinator also warned against environmentally harmful practices such as bush burning, overgrazing, and deforestation, which contribute to soil degradation, reduced crop yields, and climate change-related agricultural challenges.

    Speaking at the event, the Executive Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government Area, Mr. Femi Yusuf, commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his grassroots approach to governance and dedication to farmers’ welfare. He praised the administration’s commitment to gender inclusion in agriculture, noting that such initiatives empower women to play active roles in the state’s agricultural value chain.

    “The passion of this administration for inclusive and sustainable agriculture is commendable. Ifelodun Local Government is fully prepared to leverage this initiative to improve food security and economic development,” Yusuf stated.

    The resource person for the workshop, Mr. Gbadebo Elebiyo, advised farmers to adapt to changing weather patterns by using drought-resistant seeds and improving livestock breeds with local varieties. He stressed that climate change is altering traditional farming cycles, making it essential for farmers to embrace new techniques that ensure resilience and profitability.

    The workshop drew participation from key agricultural stakeholders, including Hon. Abdulganiyu Folabi Salahu, a member representing Omupo Constituency in the Kwara State House of Assembly, representatives of the Nigerian Association of Women in Agriculture (NAWIA), Mekunu Peoples Forum, and other agricultural groups.

    With this initiative, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration continues to champion innovative agricultural solutions to boost food security, increase farmers’ earnings, and sustain Kwara’s agricultural economy. The SAPZ program remains a key pillar of this strategy, equipping farmers with the necessary tools to adapt to climate change and maximize productivity.

  • Nigeria’s First Lady Arrives in Ilorin for Project Inauguration, Unity Flyover Named After Emir of Ilorin

    Nigeria’s First Lady Arrives in Ilorin for Project Inauguration, Unity Flyover Named After Emir of Ilorin

    …Governor AbdulRazaq, PGF Chair Uzodinma, and Dignitaries Welcome Oluremi Tinubu for Two-Day Event

    #KwaraRising

    The Nation’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, arrived in Ilorin on Tuesday morning to a warm reception by dignitaries led by Kwara State Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. The visit marks the commencement of a two-day event featuring the inauguration of key projects and the groundbreaking of a new hospital.

    The First Lady’s itinerary began at the Kwara State University of Education, where she inaugurated the ICT Community Centre, Intensive Care Unit, and Dr. Amuda Aluko Ward, all funded by her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI). She also led the distribution of food support to vulnerable groups under the RHI program.

    Later, Mrs. Tinubu paid homage to the Emir of Ilorin, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR, who chairs the Kwara State Council of Chiefs. The Emir’s contributions to peace, development, and his fatherly role in the Emirate were recognized as Governor AbdulRazaq announced the naming of the newly constructed Unity Flyover in his honour. The flyover will be officially inaugurated on Wednesday.

    In another highlight of the visit, the Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF), Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the Oluremi Tinubu Hospital. The multi-storey facility is being constructed on the site of the old civil service clinic, symbolizing a significant upgrade in healthcare infrastructure for the state.

    The First Lady’s entourage included the wives of the Vice President, Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and Chief of Staff, as well as First Ladies from across Nigeria, federal and state lawmakers, top government officials, and party leaders. Notable attendees included Kwara State House of Assembly Speaker Rt. Hon. Saliu Yakubu, Senator Sadiq Umar (Kwara North), and House of Representatives member Mukhtar Tolani Shagaya.

    Religious leaders, including the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Soliu, and CAN Chairman Bishop Sunday Adewole, were also present at the event, showcasing the significance of the occasion.

  • Kwara State Acquires 5,000 Hectares for Livestock and Industrial Park Development

    Kwara State Acquires 5,000 Hectares for Livestock and Industrial Park Development

    The Kwara State government has made significant strides in its development agenda by acquiring 3,000 hectares of land in Malete, Moro Local Government Area, for livestock production. In addition, another 2,000 hectares have been secured for the construction of an Industrial Park along the Ilorin-Ogbomoso Road.

    This was disclosed by the Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Geographic Information Service (KWGIS), Abdulkareem Sulyman, during an interview with LEADERSHIP in Ilorin on Monday. Sulyman revealed that the payment of compensation for the land in Malete has reached 70% completion, while the compensation process for the land along Ilorin-Ogbomoso Road is currently underway.

    KwaraRising can report that Sulyman also highlighted the progress on the Ilorin SmartCity project, with preliminary activities already completed on 19,000 hectares earmarked for the initiative. This project is part of the state’s broader vision to drive urban development and economic growth.

    The KWGIS Chairman noted that ongoing reforms, including the collation and harmonization of all land-related agencies and the transition from analogue to digital land operations, have significantly reduced bottlenecks and enhanced efficiency. These reforms have also curtailed the activities of land grabbers, ensuring smoother land administration in the state.

    “The success of my agency is tied to the visionary leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who has ensured that all developmental activities align with the state’s master plan, promoting growth and rapid development,” Sulyman stated. He emphasized that the automation of land administration has not only streamlined processes but also boosted the state’s internally generated revenue.

    Sulyman clarified that the ongoing reclamation exercise of government setbacks around public offices and institutions is a federal government directive aimed at enhancing security across the country. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment for its residents.

    With these strategic land acquisitions and reforms, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq continues to lay a solid foundation for Kwara State’s sustainable development and economic transformation.

  • Governor AbdulRazaq Launches Major Agricultural Initiative to Boost Food Security in Kwara State

    Governor AbdulRazaq Launches Major Agricultural Initiative to Boost Food Security in Kwara State

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has launched a significant agricultural intervention aimed at enhancing food production and ensuring access to nutritious food across Kwara State. Under the Livestock Productivity and Resilient Support Project (L-PRES), the Governor distributed 100 motorcycles and 5,000 enzymes to agricultural extension agents and livestock farmers. This initiative underscores his administration’s commitment to strengthening the agricultural sector and achieving food security for the state’s residents.

    In addition to the distribution of motorcycles and enzymes, Governor AbdulRazaq also presented a Toyota Hilux to the Department of Livestock Services within the State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. This vehicle will improve the mobility of field officers, enabling them to deliver timely support and services to farmers more effectively. Speaking on behalf of the Governor, Secretary to the State Government Prof. Mamman Jibril emphasized that this initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to reposition agriculture for sustainable growth.

    The Governor highlighted that this distribution is part of a broader strategy to address the challenges facing livestock farmers. His administration has been proactive in constructing and rehabilitating boreholes along livestock routes, fitted with troughs to meet the water needs of both livestock and herders. This effort aims to mitigate farmers-herders conflicts and foster peaceful coexistence.

    Furthermore, Governor AbdulRazaq outlined other critical interventions, including the training of 700 extension agents and farmers on small ruminant production and feed processing. These trainings are designed to equip farmers with essential knowledge and skills in livestock management to enhance productivity. The state also recently launched a mass vaccination campaign against anthrax across all 16 local government areas to safeguard the health of livestock.

    During the event, Governor AbdulRazaq expressed gratitude for the support from key partners such as the World Bank, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, the Islamic Development Bank, and the African Development Bank. He acknowledged that these collaborations have been crucial in achieving the objectives of the L-PRES project and the broader agricultural interventions.

    Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, praised the Governor for his sustained investment in the sector. She emphasized the pivotal role of extension agents in providing on-the-ground support to farmers and promoting sustainable agricultural practices to improve food security.

    State Project Coordinator of L-PRES, Mr. Olusoji Oyawoye, highlighted the importance of this initiative in enhancing the capabilities of extension agents, particularly in hard-to-reach areas. This move ensures that innovative agricultural services can reach more farmers, ultimately boosting productivity and food security throughout the state.

  • Kwara Hosts North Central Agric Business Conference with Calls for Inclusive Empowerment

    Kwara Hosts North Central Agric Business Conference with Calls for Inclusive Empowerment

      …As Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Champions Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development in the region

      The North Central Zonal Conference of Women and Youths in Agric Business and Entrepreneurs concluded in Ilorin, Kwara State, with a strong emphasis on the need for inclusive empowerment through agricultural vocational skills. The event saw stakeholders urging all levels of government to invest in empowering citizens for sustainable development via agriculture.

      Speaking at the conference, Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, highlighted Kwara State’s commitment to inclusive policies, revealing that 50% of state agricultural programmes are dedicated to women, youths, and persons with disabilities. “Women and youths are central to every programme designed by the State because we recognize their critical role in economic transformation,” she affirmed.

      Commissioner for Environment and Forestry, Hajia Nafisat Buge, urged participants to see agriculture as a dignified and profitable venture. “Agriculture is neither dirty nor something to be ashamed of; it is a rewarding business that contributes significantly to our economy,” she stated, encouraging more people to embrace opportunities within the sector.

      The Director General of the Nigeria Agric Business for Women and Youth Farmers Entrepreneurs (NABG), Mr. Jafar Abubakar, showcased the transformative potential of agric business in fostering economic growth and independence. He emphasized the integration of technology into agriculture as a means to enhance efficiency and output. “Women, who already contribute significantly to Nigeria’s GDP, can achieve greater heights through agriculture combined with technology and innovative business practices,” he noted.

      Mr. Abubakar commended the Kwara State Government under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for its youth-inclusive policies, emphasizing that investing in agric business would drive food security and reduce unemployment. He lauded the state’s efforts in creating a supportive environment for agricultural entrepreneurs.

      A standout presentation was made by Mr. Abdulafeez Alao, a participant from Kwara State, who introduced “Eedu-Ramoni,” an eco-friendly briquette made from farm waste. His innovation, aimed at reducing deforestation and promoting environmental sustainability, received wide acclaim for balancing ecological conservation with economic benefits.

      The conference concluded with the recognition of outstanding entrepreneurs excelling in various agric business ventures, inspiring participants to explore diverse opportunities within the sector. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development reaffirmed its dedication to promoting agric business as a catalyst for sustainable development, empowering women and youths, and driving economic transformation in Kwara State and beyond.