The Governor of Nasarawa State, Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule, today paid an inspection visit to the Nasarawa State Government Rice Farm extension in Ayarkeke, Awe Local Government Area, accompanied by the Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari.

The visit showcased ongoing progress in the state’s ambitious agricultural development program, with 3,300 hectares of the planned 10,000-hectare rice farm already under cultivation. The large-scale initiative is a key component of the state’s efforts to boost local food production and enhance economic development through agriculture.

Expressing satisfaction with the scale and quality of the work on-site, Minister Kyari commended the Nasarawa State Government for its commitment to food production and pledged continued collaboration with the state to drive food security efforts nationwide. He reiterated that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, which prioritizes agricultural transformation and self-sufficiency.

Governor Sule reaffirmed the state’s commitment to leveraging its vast arable land and human resources to enhance agricultural productivity. He noted that the rice farm project is not only vital for food security but also for job creation and rural development.

“This project is a demonstration of our strategic approach to agriculture as a cornerstone of our economic growth plan. We are determined to support our farmers and invest in the necessary infrastructure to ensure long-term sustainability,” the governor said.

The rice farm in Ayarkeke is expected to significantly contribute to Nigeria’s rice production capacity, reducing dependence on imports and stabilizing food prices.

The visit underscores the growing partnership between federal and state governments in tackling food insecurity and promoting agricultural industrialization across the country.