The Nigerian government has set aside 40,000 hectares of land and registered 80,000 farmers for the 2025/2026 dry-season wheat programme, with an estimated output value of about ₦160 billion, the agriculture minister said on Saturday.
Agriculture and Food Security Minister Abubakar Kyari announced the plan at the launch of the National Agricultural Growth and Agro Pocket Project (NAGSAP) wheat programme in Jere, Borno State.
Kyari said Borno would receive 3,000 hectares and 6,000 registered farmers under the allocation.
He said the government supported 107,429 farmers in the 2023/2024 wheat season and 279,297 in the 2024/2025 cycle, with outputs valued at ₦474.6 billion and ₦893.7 billion respectively.
“For the current 2025/2026 season, we are targeting 80,000 registered farmers with an expected output value of approximately ₦160 billion,” Kyari said.
The minister said agricultural extension agents, fertiliser inspectors and seed quality officers would be deployed to ensure farmers receive certified inputs and guidance on improved agronomic practices.
Kyari said the wheat programme covers 16 states, including Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Cross River, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Niger, Plateau, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe and Zamfara. He noted that the inclusion of Cross River last year marked the first expansion of wheat production into southern Nigeria.
He added that the project was structured to ensure equitable access for women and young people.
“The success of any agricultural season depends on the quality of inputs that reach farmers. This is why NAGSAP emphasises traceability, input quality, and transparent delivery systems,” he said.
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, who spoke at the event, praised the federal government’s continued support for irrigation and food security.
“Today is a celebration of hope and resilience. Despite insecurity, displacement and climate shocks, Borno remains committed to producing its own food,” Zulum said.
He said the state’s vast irrigable land, especially around the Lake Chad Basin, positions it as one of Nigeria’s most promising agricultural hubs.
Zulum said his administration would continue investing in irrigation facilities, machinery, improved seeds, fertilisers and agrochemicals to strengthen all-season farming.
“Wheat cultivation in Borno is a transformative initiative. Through mechanisation, quality inputs and extension services, we are helping farmers achieve higher yields and contribute meaningfully to national output,” he said.
The governor said the state had recorded significant milestones through its agricultural support programmes, which have reached thousands of smallholder farmers, resettled families, women and youth.
