Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development

Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development Official page for Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development

Kwara Govt To Empower Genuine Farmers- Agric CommissionerPlan is afoot by the Kwara State Government in partnership with...
08/04/2026

Kwara Govt To Empower Genuine Farmers- Agric Commissioner

Plan is afoot by the Kwara State Government in partnership with the Federal Government for a broader agricultural empowerment initiatives and agricultural support programmes for genuine farmers across the state.

The state Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Afees Abolore Alabi, who made the disclosure while featuring on a live programme on Albarka FM today, explained that the empowerment would be in form of farm inputs, mechanisation services, financial support schemes, and loan facilities.

Dr Alabi informed that the Bank of Agriculture (BoA) account is one of the major requirements for farmers to access agricultural support programmes across Kwara State.

He further emphasized that the move by the government, forms part of the ongoing efforts by the administration of Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, to strengthen agricultural systems through structured, transparent, and efficient intervention delivery.

According to him, "the BoA account now serves as a central gateway for farmers to benefit from farm inputs, mechanisation services, financial support schemes, and loan facilities, as well as broader agricultural empowerment initiatives from both Federal and State Governments aimed at boosting productivity, strengthening value chains, and enhancing food security".

He noted that compliance with this requirement will improve transparency, enhance coordination, and ensure that agricultural support reaches genuine farmers across the State.

He further warned that farmers without an active Bank of Agriculture account may unable to access certain intervention programmes.

All farmers, cooperatives, and agribusiness groups are therefore advised to complete their registration through the official Bank of Agriculture portal: https://boanig.com/

He also urged farmers to share the information widely within their communities and to seek guidance from Agricultural Development Programme (ADP) extension officers across the 16 Local Government Areas of the State.

Ashaolu Omotola
Press Secretary
Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development

Kwara To Become Leading Export Hub- Agric CommissionerThe Kwara State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to positi...
08/04/2026

Kwara To Become Leading Export Hub- Agric Commissioner

The Kwara State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to positioning the State as a leading export hub across the country.

The state Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Afees Abolore Alabi, made this known in his office in Ilorin, today while receiving the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), delegation led by the State Coordinator, Mr. Olu Raymond Ikulajulo.

The Commissioner highlighted Kwara State’s comparative advantage in the production of export-ready crops such as soya beans, sesame seeds, cashew, and rice.

He further noted that the State had continued to consolidate its reputation in these value chains, while also intensifying efforts to address the challenge of unregulated export activities as part of a broader strategy to ensure quality control and protect the integrity and market value of the State’s produce.

He emphasized that the Ministry remains deliberate in aligning production with global standards through structured interventions, including the controlled distribution of improved inputs to farmers, which has contributed to better yield quality and consistency, while strengthening the State’s non-oil revenue potential.

In his remarks, the NEPC State Coordinator commended the Kwara State Government for its proactive measures in strengthening agricultural production systems, particularly in ensuring quality through regulated input distribution.

He expressed the Council’s readiness to work closely with the Ministry in advancing policies and initiatives that will elevate Kwara’s profile in the export market.

The Commissioner said both parties had agreed to deepen technical collaboration in areas of quality assurance, farmer sensitization, and structured market access, with a focus on aligning Kwara’s agricultural produce with international export standards.

He added that the engagement reinforces a shared commitment to building a coordinated and efficient export system that will unlock greater economic opportunities for farmers, strengthen value chains, and position Kwara State as a leading force in Nigeria’s non-oil export sector

Also speaking, the Director of Agricultural Services, Hajia Hafsat Hussein, emphasized that the Ministry has trained extension agents across all 16 Local Government Areas of the State, that can be effectively deployed to support export-oriented agricultural practices.

She noted that these agents are well-positioned to guide farmers on best practices, ensure adherence to quality standards, and facilitate the adoption of improved production techniques required for international markets.

Ashaolu Omotola
Press Secretary
Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development

KWARA DEEPENS PARTNERSHIP WITH OLAM AGRI TO CURB POST-HARVEST LOSSESThe Kwara State Government has taken a major step to...
29/03/2026

KWARA DEEPENS PARTNERSHIP WITH OLAM AGRI TO CURB POST-HARVEST LOSSES

The Kwara State Government has taken a major step to address post-harvest losses and improve farmers’ profitability through a partnership with Olam Agri, following a meeting held on Friday in Abuja between the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Afees Abolore Alabi, and the Vice President Procurement, Olam Agri, Mr. Noel Ferrao.

In his remarks, Dr. Abolore identified post-harvest losses as a major constraint affecting farmers’ income and overall sector efficiency, stressing the need for improved storage systems within the State as a practical intervention to safeguard harvested produce and reduce avoidable waste.

He explained that the proposed activation of storage facilities will improve preservation, support aggregation of produce, and enhance farmers’ ability to access better market opportunities through improved timing and reduced pressure to sell immediately after harvest.

Also speaking, Mr. Ferrao mentioned that Olam Agri are looking to work with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Kwara State Government, Development Agencies and Financial Institutions to create a sustainable model for maize and soyabean out grower programs providing seeds and inputs to farmers as well as training on good agricultural practices and timely market access.

He further explained that Olam Agri is already in one such partnership in soyabean and planning to launch another this farming season.

Dr. Abolore appreciated the collaboration and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to strengthening agricultural support systems across the 16 Local Government Areas, noting that the intervention is expected to directly reach thousands of farmers.

The engagement reflects the Kwara State Government’s continued focus on strengthening agricultural infrastructure, deepening private sector collaboration, and improving efficiency within the agricultural system to support long-term food security and rural development.

Ashaolu Omotola
Press Secretary
Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development

Farmers Hail AbdulRazaq as KWSG Rolls Out Fertilizer Distribution for Dry Season FarmingThe Kwara State Government has b...
07/02/2026

Farmers Hail AbdulRazaq as KWSG Rolls Out Fertilizer Distribution for Dry Season Farming

The Kwara State Government has began the distribution of fertilizers to support farmers that engaged in dry season cultivation across the state with a view to strengthening the state’s drive for year-round farming.

The state Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr Afees Abolore Alabi who flagged the distribution in Ilorin on Friday, explained that the initiative is designed to ease the burden of rising agricultural input costs.

Dr Alabi said the fertilizer distribution was carefully structured to ensure farmers remain productive despite prevailing market challenges.

He also warned against selling and diversion of the inputs, vowing that anyone found wanting would be made to face the full wrath of the law.

He noted that sustaining continuous cultivation is essential to stabilizing food availability and strengthening farmers' resilience across the state.

The Commissioner therefore, reaffirmed the present administration's commitment to practical, farmer-centred interventions that promote continuous farming, expand production capacity, and position agriculture as a key pillar of economic recovery and inclusive growth in the state.

He also reiterated the State Government's resolve to continue implementing sustainable agricultural interventions that promote rural development, economic recovery, and a resilient food system.

The State FADAMA Programme Project Coordinator, Dr. Isiaka Toyin Busari, represented by the Head of Technical, Engr. Abdulmalik Zubairu, commended the State Government for its leadership and effective collaboration, noting that the timely intervention reflects the state’s dedication to impactful programme implementation and service delivery to farmers.

One of the beneficiaries of the initiative, Mr Soliu Yahaya, had in his remarks, expressed appreciation to the state government for its sustained support to the agricultural sector.

He described the intervention as a strong motivation for farmers to intensify off-season farming, noting that improved access to fertilizers would enhance productivity and sustain livelihoods.

Farmers across the 16 Local Government Areas of Kwara State benefited from the fertilizer distribution, which is expected to support the cultivation of key crops and contribute to improved food availability across the state.

Ashaolu Omotola
Press Secretary
Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development

Commissioner Expresses Grief over Death of NCAM ED, Dr. Abdulgafar KamalThe Kwara State Commissioner for Agriculture and...
09/01/2026

Commissioner Expresses Grief over Death of NCAM ED, Dr. Abdulgafar Kamal

The Kwara State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Afees Abolore Alabi, has expressed deep grief over the death of the Executive Director of the National Centre for Agricultural Mechanization (NCAM), Dr. Abdulgafar Kamal.

Dr. Alabi described the passing of the seasoned agricultural technocrat as a colossal loss to the nation’s agricultural sector, noting that Dr. Kamal was a committed professional whose efforts contributed meaningfully to the advancement of agricultural mechanization in Nigeria.

He acknowledged the late Dr. Kamal’s leadership at NCAM, where his expertise and dedication helped strengthen institutional capacity and promote innovation aimed at improving productivity and efficiency within the agricultural value chain.

The Commissioner commiserated with the family of the deceased, the management and staff of NCAM, as well as stakeholders across the agricultural sector, urging them to find comfort in the enduring legacy of service and impact left behind.

He prayed that Allah, in His infinite mercy, forgives the shortcomings of the departed, grants him Al-jannah Firdaus, and gives his family and loved ones the strength to bear the loss.

Ashaolu Omotola
Press Secretary
Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development

Kwara Gets Major Boost In Cassava Value Chain As KWASANG Launches Processing FactoryThe Kwara State Government on Monday...
30/12/2025

Kwara Gets Major Boost In Cassava Value Chain As KWASANG Launches Processing Factory

The Kwara State Government on Monday, made a significant leap in strengthening cassava value addition and agro-processing in the state, as it commissions the Kwara State Association of Nigerians in UK (KWASANG) APEX CO-OP Cassava Value-Addition Factory in Osin Pakate, Ilorin East Local Government Area.

Speaking at the event, the state Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Afees Abolore Alabi, described the initiative as a cooperative-led programme that aligns with the state’s agricultural development priorities.

He noted with satisfaction that the project demonstrates how farmer organisations, supported by the right policies and partnerships, can drive sustainable agribusiness growth.

Dr. Alabi explained that cassava value addition plays a critical role in reducing post-harvest losses, improving product quality, and increasing farmers’ incomes, while also creating employment opportunities for youths and women.

He added that initiatives such as the KWASANG factory contribute to food security, supply of industrial raw materials, and rural economic development.

He acknowledged the partnership of the leadership of KWASANG with diaspora partners, describing their collective investment as a strong signal of confidence in cassava production and processing opportunities within the state.

The Commissioner further noted that cooperative organisation remains a key pillar in the government’s approach to inclusive agricultural development.

Dr. Alabi stated that the role of the Kwara State Government is to provide an enabling environment through supportive policies, infrastructure development, capacity building, and strategic collaboration with cooperatives and the private sector.

He added that the progress being recorded across the cassava value chain reflects the development direction of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, whose administration continues to prioritize agricultural transformation through strategic partnerships and investor-friendly policies.

The factory, according to the Commissioner, is expected to process cassava into products such as Gari, high-quality cassava flour, starch, and other value-added derivatives for household consumption and industrial use.

His words:"The initiative also complements ongoing efforts to strengthen the cassava value chain through improved access to inputs, extension support, and market linkages aimed at increasing productivity and profitability for farmers across the state".

In his remarks, the Chairman of KWASANG Farmers, Dr. Mustapha Tunde Salawu, appreciated the Kwara State Government for creating a supportive environment that made the project possible.

He encouraged Nigerians in the diaspora, particularly Kwarans, to look back home and invest as a way of contributing to the development of their communities, Kwara State, and the country at large.

He noted that Kwara State’s vast arable farmland and its strategic location as a gateway between the northern and southern parts of the country make it a highly attractive destination for agricultural and agribusiness investment.

Said he:"The KWASANG APEX CO-OP Cassava Value-Adding Factory, is expected to reduce post-harvest losses, improve market access for cassava farmers, and stimulate economic activities within Osin Pakate and surrounding communities.

Dignitaries at the event included; the Chairman of Ilorin East Local Government Area, Amb. Garba Olayinka Agbelere; Shaykh Lukman Muktar; as well as leaders of farmer cooperatives, development partners, agribusiness stakeholders, and members of the local farming community.

Ashaolu Omotola
Press Secretary
Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development

Kwara Govt Sensitizes Young Farmers on Smart, Sustainable AgricultureThe Kwara State Government has demonstrated its com...
08/12/2025

Kwara Govt Sensitizes Young Farmers on Smart, Sustainable Agriculture

The Kwara State Government has demonstrated its commitment to youth-driven agricultural transformation by sensitizing young farmers on sustainable agriculture in partnership with the Young Farmers in Nigeria (YOFIN), Kwara Chapter, in a seminar on Monday at the Kwara State Library Hall, Ilorin.

The seminar which was supported by the ActionAid and other development partners, was aimed at equipping young farmers with modern tools, innovative techniques, and sustainable practices.

Speaking at the event, the Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, through a speech delivered by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Afees Abolore Alabi, highlighted the State’s deliberate efforts to modernize agriculture. He reaffirmed the administration’s goal of creating an enabling environment, where young farmers can thrive, adopt new technologies, and transform agriculture into a profitable and sustainable enterprise. The message emphasized expanded extension services, mechanisation programmes, climate-smart practices, and strategic partnerships that promote technology-led agriculture.

Further reflecting the administration’s commitment, the Governor noted ongoing investments in rural infrastructure and value-addition initiatives, alongside reforms aimed at making agricultural processes more efficient. He encouraged young farmers to see themselves as pivotal contributors to strengthening Kwara’s food economy and urged them to maximise the knowledge gained to grow their agribusiness ventures.

The event, themed “Enhancing Kwara’s Young Farmers Through Smart and Innovative Agricultural Practices,” brought together young agripreneurs, experts, and stakeholders for deep engagement on emerging technologies and modern farming systems that enhance sustainability and productivity.

In his remarks, the Kwara State Coordinator of YOFIN, Mal. Aremu Ridwan Mayaki, expressed appreciation to the Governor for his consistent support for youth-focused development. He noted that advances in agricultural technology have redefined the sector, making it more attractive and viable for young people eager to pursue agribusiness.

A facilitator from the National Centre for Agricultural Mechanization (NCAM), Engr. Dr. Awu John Ibe, delivered a presentation that underscored the importance of innovation in transforming agriculture. He highlighted the impact of smart farming practices and the technologies that enable greater precision, efficiency, and sustainability in agricultural operations.

The training segment was anchored by Adun Green Foundation and facilitated by its Co-Founder, Mr. Olaribigbe Tajudeen. He led participants through practical sessions focused on precision farming techniques, reduction of post-harvest losses, methods for maximising yields across various farm sizes, and sustainable approaches that support market-driven agricultural growth. Participants gained practical, actionable insights to immediately enhance their productivity and agribusiness outcomes.

In attendance was the Deputy Chief Whip of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Hon. Yusuf Mariam Aladi, while representatives stood in for the Commissioner for Youths Development, Ambassador Ndanusa Usman Shehu; the Commissioner for Livestock Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas; and the Chairman, Lower Niger River Basin Development Authority, Ilorin, Hon. Abdullateef Alakawa. The event also drew the Senior Special Adviser on Agriculture, Mr. Musa Baba Mohammed; the Senior Special Adviser on Small Holder Farmers, Hon. Sulaiman Abdullahi Belle; a representative of Ilorin South Local Government Chairman, Hon. Mojeed Podo; students from various institutions; agricultural vendors from across the State; and many other stakeholders.

The Kwara State Government commended YOFIN Kwara for its commitment to youth empowerment, acknowledged ActionAid for its partnership, and recognised the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development for championing initiatives that align with the State’s agricultural development priorities. The government reaffirmed its dedication to sustaining programmes that advance innovation, youth leadership, and sustainable farming systems.

Ashaolu Omotola
Press Secretary
Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development

Kwara Set for Agricultural Expansion as Lagos, Others Activate Offtake PartnershipsKwara State is set to play a central ...
08/12/2025

Kwara Set for Agricultural Expansion as Lagos, Others Activate Offtake Partnerships

Kwara State is set to play a central role in Nigeria’s agricultural market as Lagos State activates its ₦500bn Offtake Guarantee Fund and other industry-backed bodies intensify discussions to secure long-term commodity supply partnerships with the State. This positions Kwara as a major supplier of grains, legumes, fish, and other high-demand produce. The announcement was made at the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development on Tuesday.

This development was confirmed during a strategic meeting led by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Afees Abolore Alabi, with representatives of major farmer associations and commodity groups in the State. He disclosed that the Lagos-Kwara arrangement has now entered its initial stage of implementation, marking the first concrete activation of an offtake framework, while engagements with other interested bodies are ongoing and gaining traction. Measures are being put in place to secure guaranteed offtake for commodities produced across Kwara’s farming networks.

The Commissioner explained that the Lagos initiative, backed by a ₦500bn procurement structure, is designed to stabilise supply, protect farmers from price volatility, and ensure consistent access to quality produce in the nation’s largest food-consuming market. He added that Kwara’s well-organised farmers' associations, strong production clusters, and established commodity capacities position the State to meet these demands effectively, while also preparing to serve the needs of other bodies discussing similar arrangements with the Ministry.

He emphasised that the guaranteed offtake marks a turning point for farmers who have long struggled with post-harvest uncertainties and unstable pricing. With a secure buyer and government-backed system now in place, farmers can plan and expand with confidence, knowing their output has an assured market even before planting. The Commissioner further highlighted that these opportunities stem from the deliberate policy direction of His Excellency, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq CON, whose agricultural reforms prioritise market access, structured value chains, and strategic partnerships that open new routes for Kwara’s agricultural producers.

Speaking on behalf of farmer groups, Chairman of the Nigeria Soybeans Association, Kwara State Chapter, Mr. Olawoyin Yinka Solomon, described the development as a major milestone that addresses one of farmers’ biggest concerns, which is the uncertainty of finding guaranteed buyers after harvest. He noted that the Lagos activation, alongside interest from other institutions, will motivate farmers to adopt improved farming practices, increase production scale, and diversify into additional high-demand commodities. He added that the Governor’s policy direction has created a supportive environment that encourages farmers to thrive.

He assured that farmers across the State are fully prepared to scale operations, confident that these emerging offtake structures guarantee fair value for their produce and safeguard their investments, ultimately strengthening Kwara’s agricultural economy.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Funke Sokoya, emphasised the importance of continued coordination between the Ministry and commodity groups to meet the expectations of the Lagos offtake model and similar partnerships under discussion. She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to providing support systems that enhance productivity and promote a more organised, demand-driven supply structure across the agricultural sector.

Kwara State is stepping confidently into a new era of agricultural prosperity. With coordinated farmer networks, strong production capacity, and growing partnerships with Lagos and other interested bodies, the State is well positioned to unlock stable markets and new growth opportunities for its producers.

Ashaolu Omotola
Press Secretary
Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development

Be part of this engagement organised by YOFIN Kwara Chapter, in collaboration with the Kwara State Government through th...
01/12/2025

Be part of this engagement organised by YOFIN Kwara Chapter, in collaboration with the Kwara State Government through the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Date: 1st December 2025
Venue: Kwara State Library
Time: 10am

Kwara Joins 21 States to Boost Food Security, Nutrition Through ANRiN 2.0Kwara State has reaffirmed its commitment to im...
29/11/2025

Kwara Joins 21 States to Boost Food Security, Nutrition Through ANRiN 2.0

Kwara State has reaffirmed its commitment to improving nutrition outcomes and strengthening household food systems at the Joint Implementation Support Mission of the Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria (ANRiN) 2.0 Project held on Friday in Abuja.

ANRiN 2.0 is a federal initiative designed to accelerate nutrition results nationwide by linking agriculture, health, and social welfare interventions.

The event, organized and facilitated by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the Federal Ministry of Finance, and the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, brought together representatives from 21 participating states to review progress, share best practices, and further strengthen collaboration between federal and state institutions.

Speaking on behalf of all Commissioners for Agriculture of participating states, Kwara State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Afees Abolore Alabi, highlighted the Convergence of Food Systems component. According to Dr. Alabi, this component links agriculture and nutrition to improve household food security and family wellbeing.

He explained that the programme promotes homestead gardening, crop production, and other nutrition-sensitive practices to increase food availability and dietary diversity. Dr. Alabi noted that successful adoption of these practices requires training for state-level trainers, support for agricultural extension officers, and direct guidance for households.

He added that participating states, including Kwara, will benefit through expanded access to climate-smart agricultural practices and the provision of inputs such as seedlings, vegetable seeds, and small-scale poultry. These measures are expected to build resilience and reduce vulnerability to food insecurity.

Dr. Alabi emphasized that the Kwara State government under the leadership of His Excellency, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, remains committed to supporting families as they adopt these practices. The Ministry will continue to provide guidance to ensure sustainable and lasting impact.

Also representing the Kwara State Government were the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam, and the Commissioner for Planning and Economic Development, Dr. Mary Ronke Arinde. Their presence underscores the State’s dedication to integrated approaches for strengthening food systems.

Kwara State encourages households, farmers, and community stakeholders to embrace homestead gardening, crop production, and other nutrition-sensitive practices to improve local food security, enhance family nutrition, and support the State’s vision for a healthier and more resilient population.

Ashaolu Omotola
Press Secretary
Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development

Commissioner Meets Fadama Ahead of Kwara NG-CARES 2.0 Launch to Boost AgricultureKwara State is set to commence the NG-C...
22/11/2025

Commissioner Meets Fadama Ahead of Kwara NG-CARES 2.0 Launch to Boost Agriculture

Kwara State is set to commence the NG-CARES Fadama 2.0 programme as the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Afees Abolore Alabi, has met with the Fadama management and staff on Friday to outline expectations for the new phase. The meeting provided an opportunity to reflect on past achievements and prepare for expanded interventions.

In his remarks, Dr. Abolore thanked Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for approving the continuation of the programme and strengthening the State’s commitment to agricultural development. He noted that Fadama has been a highly successful community driven initiative, supporting rural farmers with inputs, productive assets, irrigation facilities, and organized farmer associations. The NG-CARES framework has further expanded these gains, providing targeted assistance to vulnerable farmers and contributing to food security and economic stability.

He highlighted that Fadama 2.0 in Kwara will build on these achievements by improving access to farm inputs, expanding irrigable land, empowering women and youth farmers, and enhancing agricultural value chains through strategic grants and interventions. The programme aligns with the State’s broader agricultural reforms, aimed at boosting production, supporting rural economies, and creating a more resilient farming sector. He reminded the team that achieving even greater results depends on their dedication and teamwork.

Speaking on behalf of the Project Coordinator, Dr. Toyin Busari, Engr. Abdulmalik Zubairu, the Technical Officer Input, expressed gratitude to the State government for the trust placed in them. He commended the Kwara State Governor for prioritizing agriculture and assured the Commissioner of the team’s readiness to deliver improved outcomes. He further pledged that the staff will work collaboratively to surpass the achievements of the previous phase and ensure meaningful impact in rural communities.

In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Funke Sokoya, reaffirmed the Ministry’s support for the programme and encouraged the team to remain focused and diligent as full implementation approaches.

Supported by the World Bank, the Federal Government of Nigeria, and the Kwara State Government, NG-CARES Fadama 2.0 is expected to strengthen food security, improve livelihoods, and expand economic opportunities across all local government areas of Kwara State.

Ashaolu Omotola
Press Secretary
Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development

Kwara Celebrates World Fisheries Day 2025, Reaffirms Commitment to Sustainable Fisheries, AquacultureThe Commissioner fo...
21/11/2025

Kwara Celebrates World Fisheries Day 2025, Reaffirms Commitment to Sustainable Fisheries, Aquaculture

The Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Afees Abolore Alabi, has led Kwara State in marking the 2025 World Fisheries Day, observed this year under the theme “Free Flow: Connecting Fish, Rivers and People." The day highlights the importance of healthy aquatic ecosystems, sustainable fishing practices, and the vital role fisheries play in feeding communities and supporting livelihoods.

Dr. Alabi emphasized the strategic importance of fisheries to the State’s economy and nutrition, noting that the vision of His Excellency, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, to expand food production and strengthen agricultural value chains places aquaculture at the heart of Kwara’s growth strategy. He encouraged fish farmers to adopt innovative practices while urging youth and women to actively participate in the sector and explore emerging opportunities.

“Fisheries provide more than protein. They sustain livelihoods and create opportunities for growth,” Dr. Alabi said. “We remain committed to supporting farmers, empowering youth and women, and ensuring that our water resources continue to benefit communities for generations.”

Building on this vision, the Ministry has implemented initiatives to boost aquaculture productivity. These include improved access to quality fingerlings and feed, strengthened extension services, adoption of best practices, better market linkages, and interventions to reduce post-harvest losses. Partnerships with farmer associations, cooperatives, private investors, and research institutions are helping to build capacity and strengthen competitiveness across the State’s fisheries sector.

Fish remains central to diets across Kwara State, providing affordable, high-quality protein and essential nutrients. Beyond nutrition, the sector sustains a wide network of livelihoods, from pond operators and feed producers to processors, traders, and transporters. Kwara is recognized as one of Nigeria’s leading catfish-producing states, benefiting from the dedication of its farmers and the natural advantages of its rivers, dams, and wetlands in communities such as Asa, Edu, Patigi, Kaiama, and Moro.

Looking ahead, the Ministry will expand training programmes, technical support, and targeted interventions to improve productivity and create more opportunities across the fisheries value chain. Farmers, youth, and women are urged to engage with these initiatives, adopt innovative techniques, and leverage available support to grow their businesses while contributing to food security and economic development.

The Ministry commends the dedication of fish farmers across the State and recognizes their pivotal role in ensuring food availability, creating employment, and driving sustainable economic growth. With these efforts, Kwara State continues to strengthen its fisheries sector, securing a brighter future for communities and the next generation of fish farmers.

Ashaolu Omotola
Press Secretary
Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development

Address

Old Jebba Road, Sango
Ilorin

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Organization

Send a message to Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development:

Share