Ghanaian Agriculture Minister Discusses Collaboration On Rice Production During Visit To Kebbi

Ghanaian Minister of Food and Agriculture , Mr. Eric Opoku, is in Kebbi State on a strategic visit to understudy Nigeria’s achievements in rice production.

Mr. Opoku, who is also a Member of Parliament, has led a high-powered delegation of agricultural experts on a tour of the WACOT Rice Mill in Argungu and selected rice fadama sites across the state.

A statement made available to Team@orientactualmags.com by Governor Nasir Idris’ Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yahaya Sarki noted that the minister paid a courtesy call on the state Deputy Governor , Alhaji Umar Abubakar Tafida in Birnin Kebbi on Friday during which he explained that the current administration in Ghana which came into office four months ago, is seeking solutions to food production challenges.

‘We inherited a huge import bill, Ghana imports a large quantity of rice. However, we have fertile land and abundant water, which can support local production. That is why President John Mahama is committed to achieving food self-sufficiency’ Opoku said.

He noted that Ghana has been inspired by the success story of Kebbi State and WACOT Rice Mill in rice production which had prompted the decision to visit the state.

‘This is the main purpose of our mission—we are here to learn. Ghana and Nigeria share deep-rooted historical and cultural ties. We look up to Nigeria for mutual understanding and collaboration’ he added.

Responding on behalf of Governor Nasir Idris, the Deputy Governor warmly welcomed the Ghanaian delegation and commended their interest in agricultural cooperation.

He recalled the longstanding relationship between both countries, emphasizing the role of the Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival in promoting unity, with many Ghanaian leaders regularly attending the event.

‘Kebbi State is open to partnerships with Ghana, especially in agriculture. In addition to agriculture, the state is blessed with solid mineral resources such as gold and lithium, ready for exploration’ Tafida said.

He expressed Governor Nasir Idris’ commitment to agricultural development and industrialization, citing the provision of free fertilizers, water pumps, agrochemicals, and improved seeds to farmers.

‘Kebbi has maintained its position as Nigeria’s leading producer of rice and wheat. With year-round arable land and abundant water bodies, the state is well-positioned for sustained agricultural productivity’ Tafida added. He further expressed the state’s readiness to collaborate with Ghana in areas like capacity building, culture, and tourism to strengthen bilateral relations and cultural heritage-Team@orientactualmags.com  Do you have any information you wish to share with us? Do you want us to cover your event or programme? Kindly send SMS to 08059100286, 09094171980 or get in touch via orientactualmag@gmail.com.  Thank you