By Ali Rabiu Ali, Dutse
Smallholder farmers in Jigawa State have expressed optimism over improved wheat production following the successful demonstration of climate-smart agricultural technologies by the Sasakawa Africa Association (SAA) Nigeria.
The farmers gave the commendation during a Mega Wheat Farmers’ Field Day held on April 1, 2026, in Gilima Community, Taura Local Government Area.
The event brought together over 300 participants, including farmers, extension agents, government officials, and other agricultural stakeholders to evaluate the performance of improved wheat production practices under the SAA/Jigawa State Partnership Project.
Participants observed that the demonstration plot outperformed traditional farming methods, showing better crop establishment, uniformity, and higher yield potential.
The improved results were attributed to the use of enhanced seed varieties, quality inputs, and modern agronomic practices such as drilling planting methods and precision fertilizer application.
Speaking at the event, Chairman of Taura Local Government Area, Alhaji Shuaibu Hambali, described SAA as a reliable partner in agricultural development, noting its long-standing contribution to strengthening extension services and building the capacity of field staff in the state.
“For over three decades, SAA has continued to support smallholder farmers in Jigawa, helping to improve productivity and technical knowledge,” he said.
The host farmer and leader of the Gilima Wheat Farmers Multipurpose Cooperative Society, Alhaji Yaro Gilima, said the demonstration had boosted farmers’ confidence in adopting the new technologies.
“What we have seen here is very encouraging. The improved wheat variety is performing better than what we traditionally grow, even with changing weather conditions. I will adopt these methods on my farm,” he stated.
Another participant, Hajia Bilkisu, noted that the training helped farmers understand how simple changes in planting techniques and fertilizer application could significantly improve yield and income.
“The drilling method and proper fertilizer use—especially timing and placement have made a clear difference. These practices are easy to follow and give better results,” she said.
Other dignitaries at the event included a former member of the House of Representatives for Taura, Hon. Dangabi Kwalam; the Village Head of Gilima; Zulkifilu Abdulkadir Bali of Jigawa Farm Mechanization Services; and Abdulrasheed Hamisu Kofarmata, SAA Technical Coordinator on Market-Oriented Agriculture.
The Field Day is part of ongoing efforts by SAA Nigeria in collaboration with the Jigawa State Government to enhance agricultural productivity through improved seed varieties, good agronomic practices, and climate-smart technologies.
The partnership received renewed commitment in October 2025 with the signing of a five-year addendum to the 2011 Memorandum of Understanding between both parties.
Project Lead, Mr. Albert Taru, said the intervention goes beyond production, revealing that the project is also installing post-harvest handling and value addition facilities across benefiting communities.
Stakeholders at the event emphasized the need to scale up such farmer-tested solutions to improve wheat output, strengthen resilience, and boost food security in Jigawa State amid growing pressure on agricultural systems.
