In a bid to boost the agricultural sector and improve food security in the state, the Kaduna State Government and the United Nations have signed a Technical Cooperation Project, through the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO).
The project, titled ‘’Smart Tomato Value Chain Enhancement Through Sustainable Practices for Livelihood Improvement in Kaduna State,’’ seeks to support the small holder farmers so as to address hunger, malnutrition and to stimulate an inclusive socio-economic growth in Kaduna State.
Speaking at the event, Governor Uba Sani said Kaduna State holds great potential for Nigeria’s food security as the leading producer of many agricultural produce, including ginger, maize, soybean, tomato, sorghum etc.
The Governor further said that agriculture accounts for more than 51% of the states GDP and employs more than 70% of its population, mostly youth that make up nearly half of the over 10 million people.
He added that the state is also blessed with favourable climatic conditions that support the production of a vast array of agricultural produce and year-round agricultural activities.
While noting efforts towards meeting the 2014 Malabo Declaration of 10% budgetary allocation to agriculture, the governor said the state allocated 9.3% of its 2025 budget to the sector, adding that the primary source of income for the majority of the people is agriculture.
Uba Sani expressed confidence that the partnership with the FAO will enhance the state's tomato production value chain through sustainable practices.
In his remarks, FAO Country Representative, Koffy Dominique Kouacou said the organisation is committed to strengthening the entire tomato value chain, addressing challenges in production, post-harvest and strengthening cooperatives.
He said FAO will focus on enhancing production techniques to improve yields and quality, reduce post-harvest losses through better storage, processing and infrastructure development.
The Country Representative said that FAO will continuously advocate for agricultural transformation and sustainable food systems in the northwest region and Kaduna state in particular.
According to Kouacou, there are a lot of opportunities for economic growth, food security and prosperity if the potentials in the agricultural sector is properly harnessed.
He said that the signing of TCP marks the beginning of a transformative initiative, one that will not only enhance agricultural productivity but also improve livelihoods and economic resilience in Kaduna State.