The Agricultural Revolution in Kebbi is Transforming Nigeria

By Kebbi Daily News on Fri Jul 18 2025

Kebbi State has cemented its status as Nigeria’s rice production hub, contributing significantly to the nation’s goal of reducing food imports

Kebbi State, Nigeria’s “Land of Equity,” is emerging as a beacon of agricultural innovation, defying economic challenges to become a cornerstone of food security in West Africa. Through ambitious policies, international partnerships, and grassroots efforts, Kebbi is revolutionizing rice production, empowering farmers, and driving economic growth. This article explores the transformative impact of Kebbi’s agricultural revolution, highlighting its successes, community benefits, and potential to inspire Nigeria’s broader development.

Kebbi’s Rise as Nigeria’s Rice Capital

Kebbi State has cemented its status as Nigeria’s rice production hub, contributing significantly to the nation’s goal of reducing food imports:

Massive Output: Kebbi produces over 3.5 million metric tons of rice annually, accounting for a significant portion of Nigeria’s rice supply. The state’s fertile floodplains along the River Niger and Rima River provide ideal conditions for rice farming.

Anchor Borrowers’ Programme: Launched by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in 2015, this initiative has empowered Kebbi farmers with loans, improved seeds, and fertilizers. Over 78,000 farmers in Kebbi have benefited, boosting yields and incomes.

Lagos-Kebbi Partnership: In 2016, Kebbi partnered with Lagos State to produce LAKE Rice, a locally branded product that reduced Nigeria’s dependence on imported rice. By 2025, this collaboration has expanded, with Kebbi supplying rice to urban markets nationwide.

These efforts have drawn praise on platforms like X, where users like @NaijaFarmer celebrate Kebbi’s role in making Nigeria self-sufficient in rice production.

International Trade and Economic Impact

Kebbi’s agricultural success extends beyond Nigeria’s borders, positioning the state as a key player in West African trade:

Benin Republic Trade Protocol: In 2024, Governor Nasir Idris signed a trade agreement with Benin Republic to export rice and other crops, boosting Kebbi’s economy. This deal is projected to generate millions in revenue, with Kebbi’s rice mills operating at near-full capacity.

Job Creation: The agricultural boom has created thousands of jobs, from farming to processing and logistics. In Argungu and Birnin Kebbi, rice mills employ over 10,000 workers, many of them youth and women.

Economic Diversification: Kebbi’s focus on agriculture has reduced its reliance on federal allocations, which accounted for 80% of its budget in 2022. Internally generated revenue from agriculture-related activities rose by 15% in 2024, per state reports.

Empowering Communities Through Innovation

Kebbi’s agricultural revolution prioritizes inclusivity and sustainability:

Women and Youth Empowerment: Programs like the Kebbi Women Farmers Association provide training and microloans to women, enabling them to manage small-scale rice farms. Youth cooperatives in Zuru and Yauri have adopted modern farming techniques, increasing productivity.

Technology Adoption: Farmers are using improved seed varieties, such as FARO 44, and mechanized tools provided through CBN loans. Drones and irrigation systems are being piloted in Suru and Argungu to optimize water use.

Sustainability: Kebbi’s government is promoting organic farming and water conservation to combat climate change, ensuring long-term agricultural viability.

Posts on X, such as those from @AgriNigeria, highlight Kebbi’s innovative approach, with farmers sharing success stories of doubled harvests and improved livelihoods.

Notable Achievements

Several milestones underscore Kebbi’s agricultural transformation:

Argungu Fishing Festival Synergy: The iconic Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival now includes agricultural showcases, promoting Kebbi’s rice and fish products globally. In 2025, the festival attracted investors from Ghana and Senegal.

Infrastructure Development: The state government has rehabilitated rural roads in Bunza and Kalgo to improve market access for farmers, reducing post-harvest losses by 20%.

Export Potential: Kebbi’s rice is gaining traction in West African markets, with plans to meet ECOWAS standards for broader export by 2026.

Challenges and Resilience

Despite its successes, Kebbi faces challenges:

Security Threats: Banditry in areas like Danko-Wasagu has disrupted farming activities. However, recent military operations, including a July 2025 ambush that neutralized over 150 bandits, have improved security.

Economic Pressures: Nigeria’s 2023 demonetization and fuel subsidy removal increased input costs, but Kebbi’s government has subsidized fertilizers to cushion the impact.

Infrastructure Gaps: While progress has been made, some rural areas still lack adequate irrigation and storage facilities.

Kebbi’s resilience is evident in its ability to overcome these hurdles through community-driven solutions and government support.

Impact on Communities

The agricultural revolution has transformed lives across Kebbi:

Improved Livelihoods: Farmers in Suru and Maiyama report income increases of up to 50%, enabling them to afford better healthcare and education.

Food Security: Kebbi’s rice surplus has stabilized local food prices, benefiting urban and rural consumers.

Cultural Pride: The Hausa, Fulani, and Dakarki communities take pride in Kebbi’s reputation as Nigeria’s rice capital, fostering unity and collective progress.

Recommendations for Sustained Growth

To build on this success, Kebbi’s government and stakeholders should:

Expand Mechanization: Invest in more tractors and processing equipment to boost efficiency.

Strengthen Security: Collaborate with federal forces to sustain peace in farming communities.

Enhance Training: Scale up agricultural extension services to teach farmers advanced techniques.

Promote Exports: Streamline certification processes to meet international standards for rice exports.

Kebbi State’s agricultural revolution is a testament to the power of vision, collaboration, and resilience. By transforming rice fields into engines of economic growth, Kebbi is not only feeding Nigeria but also paving the way for West African trade. Governor Nasir Idris’s leadership, combined with the hard work of Kebbi’s farmers, has turned the state into a model of agricultural excellence. As Kebbi continues to innovate and overcome challenges, it stands as an inspiration for Nigeria’s path to self-sufficiency and prosperity.