Fatima Yusuf, a farmer in Hadejia, Jigawa State, has transitioned from modest beginnings to a successful farming enterprise. Starting with a single bag of rice in her first farming season, she now produces up to 80 bags per cycle and employs over 30 laborers.
Born into a family of farmers, Fatima pursued a degree in Agricultural Economics and Extension. She cultivates rice, wheat, and vegetables, including lettuce, onions, okra, and habanero peppers. Speaking with BBC Hausa, she credited her success to her family’s farming heritage and her education.
“My grandfather and father were both professional farmers. Growing up, I worked alongside them on the farm. My degree has equipped me with modern approaches to farming, including pest and disease control, and the use of chemicals,” she said.
Fatima also addressed misconceptions about her work. “Some people think I only visit the farm to take pictures, but those who know me and my work have been a source of encouragement,” she explained.
Fatima employs 20 to 30 laborers, many of them women. “I prefer engaging less-privileged women, especially widows, to support their livelihoods. One widow I work with used her earnings to start a business to care for her children,” she shared.
Her journey has not been without challenges. Her first harvest yielded only one bag of rice, and she faced severe flooding the following year. Despite these setbacks, Fatima persisted and steadily expanded her operations.
“Every business has challenges. You gain today and lose tomorrow. I persisted despite the difficulties, and now I’ve expanded my land annually,” she said.
Her achievements have led to collaborations with NGOs and training local farmers through workshops. She plans to diversify her crops to include sorghum, millet, and cowpeas.
“I want to grow so that I can be harvesting above 200 bags. With the right support, this goal is achievable,” she said, emphasizing her need for modern farming equipment like tractors, combine harvesters, and transplanters.
In addition to farming, Fatima engages in catering and sells veils and jewelry. Looking ahead, she hopes to balance her agricultural pursuits with family life and aspires for a supportive partner.
Fatima’s story highlights the resilience of Nigerian farmers, particularly women, in driving food security and economic development.
