The National Cereals Research Institute (NCRI) Badeggi has launched a Community Rice Seed Production Project in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and the National Agricultural Seed Council (NASC). The project aims to strengthen the local rice seed system in Niger and Oyo States.
The Public Relations Officer of the institute, Mohammed Tukur Mohammed confirming this development said Forty lead farmers, 20 from each state, have been selected to pioneer high-quality seed production in their respective communities. To equip them with the necessary skills, NCRI Badeggi organized an intensive training program on best agronomic practices, seed certification, and the seed registration process.
According to Dr. Usman Aliyu, Director/HOD of the Agricultural Engineering Department and Project Coordinator from NCRI Badeggi, the project is designed to enhance seed quality and improve farmers’ productivity. The initiative will also empower farmers with technical knowledge and essential inputs to sustain quality rice seed production in Nigeria.
To support the trained farmers, NCRI Badeggi provided them with starter packs containing fertilizers, agrochemicals, and high-yielding Faro 44 rice seeds. This initiative is part of NCRI’s mission to promote sustainable, demand-driven agricultural practices and contribute to national food security.
The Executive Director of NCRI Badeggi, Dr. Mohammed Ndagi Ishaq, reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to driving research and innovation that directly benefits farmers. With this project, NCRI Badeggi and its partners continue to strengthen Nigeria’s agricultural sector, ensuring farmers have access to high-quality seeds, improved farming techniques, and essential resources for increased productivity.