Abubakar Kyari, minister of agriculture and food security, has revealed that Nigeria suffers post-harvest losses worth $10 billion every year due to poor storage systems and flooding.
Gatekeepers News reports that speaking on Monday at the inauguration of the Green Legacy Rural Community Agriculture and Infrastructure Network (G.R.A.I.N) pulse centre in Kangire community, Kyari identified weak infrastructure, limited processing facilities, climate change, soil degradation, and erratic rainfall as additional factors worsening the situation.
He noted that smallholder farmers, who account for 70 percent of Nigeria’s food supply, remain central to addressing these challenges.
Kyari said, “By empowering smallholder farmers with modern tools, technology, and markets, we can unlock the full wealth of our land and people.”
The minister highlighted that agriculture contributes about 24 percent to the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP).
He stressed that private-sector-driven initiatives will strengthen Nigeria’s food systems and enhance resilience against post-harvest losses.
According to him, the new pulse centre is designed to function as an integrated hub for agriculture, infrastructure, and rural development, covering the entire value chain.
Kyari reiterated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is making agriculture the backbone of national transformation through practical measures.
Also speaking, Yusuf Tuggar, minister of foreign affairs, emphasised the importance of public-private partnerships.
He said, “This microeconomy will benefit Nigeria because of its multiple advantages, particularly the integration of modern facilities and technologies”, while commending Tinubu and Jigawa governor Umar Namadi for prioritising food security.
Namadi, in his remarks, said the pulse centre will boost Kangire’s economy and serve as proof of agriculture-led rural development.
He pointed out key features such as a solar-powered system and digitally connected hubs supporting the entire agricultural value chain.
The Governor pledged continued investment in agriculture to create jobs, expand infrastructure, and improve livelihoods.
Muhammad Uba, chairman of Birnin-Kudu local government area, also endorsed the project, applauding Namadi’s efforts and aligning with Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda for modernising agriculture in Jigawa.
