By Lanre Shodimu
The need to boost productivity and ensure food security and deepen the productivity and competitiveness of smallholder farmers in Niger State, Sasakawa Africa Association (SAA) has commenced an intensive capacity-building programme for field agents aimed at equipping 40,000 targeted farmers on advanced agronomic knowledge and smart climate techniques for production of maize and soyabean.
According to the Project Coordinator of the program, Isaac Eni, who made this known in Minna, that the training that was organised by SAA and AGRA for 44 field agents and Community Based Advisors (CBAs) was designed to equip the participants with practical knowledge that would be cascaded to farmers ahead of this year’s cropping season.
He stated that farmers ability to interpret seasonal rainfall and aligning planting decisions with weather advisories was key for not only improving productivity but also competitiveness; hence, the training by Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) on how to translate complex climate information into practical, farmer-friendly messages.
Sasakawa, partners, equipped 44 field agents with climate intelligence to drive maize–soybean productivity in Niger State. The Training of Trainers (ToT), organised by Sasakawa Africa Association (SAA), is part of an AGRA-funded project.
“The project which kicked off October 2025 aims to promote farming models stimulated by climate-smart agricultural practices, digital innovations, extension support services, and strengthened vertical linkages among producers, agro-dealers, and off-takers.
“It also promotes a structured and transparent market system that enhances access to market information and linkages, thereby increasing value addition and income for smallholder maize and soybean farmers.” He added.
