The Federal Government of Nigeria is intensifying its partnership with Japan through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The initiative, focused on capacity development for rice seed production, is set to transform the agricultural landscape and reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported rice.
During a high-level meeting in Abuja, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, met with the JICA Nigeria delegation to discuss the rollout of the “Capacity Development for Enhancement of Rice Seed Production” (CaDERSeeP) project. The Minister underscored the significance of Japan’s technical support, noting that the collaboration perfectly aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s renewed focus on national food security and economic resilience.
Senator Bagudu described the partnership as more than a development project—it is a testament to the enduring friendship and shared values between Nigeria and Japan. Drawing from his past achievements as Governor of Kebbi State and Vice-Chairman of the National Food Security Council, he cited remarkable improvements in rice yields, from under one ton per hectare to four tons within two cropping seasons, as evidence of what effective strategy and support can deliver.
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The Minister affirmed that the Federal Government will work hand in hand with the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN) and other agricultural stakeholders to ensure swift and impactful execution of training programs on Foundation Seed (FS) and Certified Seed (CS) production. He further appealed to Japan for technical assistance in soil testing across Nigeria, stressing that such data would optimize crop yields and drive the country’s agricultural productivity.
Senator Bagudu thanked the Japanese government and
JICA for their longstanding commitment to Nigeria’s agricultural development. He described the renewed collaboration as a major leap toward achieving agro-industrial growth, import substitution, and sustainable economic advancement.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Emeka Vitalis Obi, also emphasized the continuity of this partnership, referencing an agreement from 2001 that aimed to improve rice seed production. He reiterated the government’s vision of making Nigeria self-sufficient in rice production and drastically reducing reliance on imports.
Earlier, the Chief Representative of JICA Nigeria, Yuzurio Susumu, shared that the project’s core goal is to enhance the multiplication and quality control systems of rice Foundation and Certified Seeds. Targeting the states of Oyo and Niger, the project will also involve key discussions on implementation strategies, baseline surveys, and desired outcomes.
This Nigeria-Japan collaboration stands as a powerful model for international cooperation, poised to not only elevate rice production but also fuel economic inclusion, reduce poverty, and solidify Nigeria’s position as a leading agricultural hub in Africa.
