Governor Umar Bago of Niger State has reaffirmed his commitment to using biotechnology and innovation to drive sustainable agricultural growth and make Niger a key player in Nigeria’s quest for food self-sufficiency.

Speaking after receiving an award at the Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) Media Awards in Abuja, Bago, represented by Saidu Abdullahi, Chair of the House Committee on Finance, described the recognition as a reflection of the state’s transformation into an agricultural hub. He said the accolade aligns with his “Feed the Nation” agenda and President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda on agriculture and food security.

The governor highlighted that Niger State has attracted both local and foreign investments through multiple MoUs, leading to technology transfer and infrastructural growth. He also outlined plans to advocate for the adoption of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) to improve crop yields, reduce pest risks, and enhance national food production.

Bago expressed optimism that by the end of his tenure, Niger State would solidify its position as Nigeria’s food basket.