Dutse: The Jigawa government says it has entered into a partnership with El-Meena Farms to accelerate Alfalfa production. Alfalfa is a flowering plant that is high in protein, usually processed and used as animal feeds for dairy generation.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Sagir Musa, Commissioner for Information, Youth, and Sports, announced this during a news conference at the end of the State Executive Council (SEC) meeting. He stated that the council has approved the partnership, which is being supported by Nigeria Export-Import Bank (NEXIM Bank) and the Saudi Export-Import Bank (Saudi EXIM Bank).
Musa noted that this strategic collaboration marks a major step in Jigawa’s efforts to diversify the economy, boost agricultural productivity, and enhance the livestock and dairy sectors. The partnership aims to enable the state to engage in large-scale cultivation, processing, and export of high-quality Alfalfa.
The commissioner highlighted that the project is expected to generate over $400 million in economic value. It is anticipated to create more than 100,000 direct jobs and 500,000 indirect jobs, strengthening rural livelihoods, empowering farmers, and attracting foreign investments.
He further stated that this initiative is expected to position Jigawa as a leading hub for Alfalfa production and export in sub-Saharan Africa. Musa reiterated the state government’s commitment to ensuring sustainable agricultural transformation through private sector-driven growth to enhance global competition.