FLAG OFF WHEAT FARMING
Maiduguri, Borno State — November 16, 2025
The Federal Government has officially flagged off the 2025–2026 wheat dry-season farming programme in Borno State, marking a significant step toward boosting national food production and reducing reliance on wheat imports. The launch, held in Maiduguri, brought together top government officials, agricultural stakeholders, and representatives of farming communities from across the country.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, announced that the initiative targets 80,000 farmers across 16 states, each of whom will receive support to cultivate half a hectare of wheat. He explained that, with effective implementation, the programme is projected to yield wheat valued at over ₦100 billion, strengthening Nigeria’s food security and contributing to economic growth.
The Minister noted that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s broader agricultural transformation agenda aimed at expanding local production, enhancing value chains, and empowering farmers with improved inputs and extension services.
In his remarks, Borno State Governor, Professor Umara Zulum, expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for its continuous intervention, particularly in improving security conditions that enable farmers to return to their farmlands. He highlighted the significant progress made during the 2025 wet-season farming, stating that many farmers in the state harvested enough food to last them 12 to 18 months.
Governor Zulum further disclosed that 6,000 farmers from Borno State are participating in the wheat programme, collectively cultivating 3,000 hectares during the dry season. He emphasized that the initiative will not only boost food production but also enhance livelihoods and community resilience.
The flag-off ceremony underscored the government’s commitment to achieving greater self-sufficiency in food production and supporting farmers at all levels as the new farming season begins.
