At a technical update meeting in Abuja, the minister emphasized the importance of supporting Nigeria’s farmers, who represent about 70 percent of the population, through enhanced technical assistance aimed at improving yields and income.
The proposed bill, which has successfully passed its first reading in the Senate, seeks to establish a robust agricultural extension service. This initiative aims to empower farmers with technology-driven, demand-oriented services and enhance the capabilities of extension workers.
Key provisions of the bill advocate for a sustainable and pluralistic extension system that effectively integrates public and private sectors, research institutions, and agricultural commerce. The minister highlighted that having skilled agents in the field is crucial, asserting that proper legislation for extension delivery will significantly strengthen Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
Dr. Salamatu Garba, Country Director of the Women Farmers Advancement Network (WOFAN) and leader of the Mastercard Foundation-funded ICON2 project noted that a well-functioning extension service system would not only assist current farmers but also attract more young people to agriculture, fostering a new generation of agricultural entrepreneurs.
