The Niger State Government has entered into a landmark multi-billion dollar agricultural agreement with the Republic of Benin, a deal officials say will boost food security, strengthen cross-border trade, and position the state as a hub for agro-industrial development in West Africa.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago disclosed the development on Thursday during a press briefing in Minna, noting that the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) covers large-scale crop production, irrigation farming, agro-processing, and export-focused value chains.
> “This partnership with the Republic of Benin is historic. It will not only transform agriculture in Niger State but also expand regional cooperation for food sufficiency across West Africa,” Governor Bago said.
According to the governor, the agreement involves joint investments in mechanized farming, fertilizer production, and research collaboration between Niger State’s agricultural institutions and Benin’s Ministry of Agriculture. The initiative is also expected to unlock opportunities for private sector participation, with both Nigerian and Beninese agribusinesses invited to take part in the projects.
Officials revealed that the MoU is designed to leverage Niger State’s vast arable land and water resources—particularly along the River Niger—while tapping into Benin’s growing demand for agricultural imports. The partnership will focus on staples such as rice, maize, and soybeans, as well as livestock and fisheries.
Economists say the cross-border deal could generate thousands of jobs, increase internally generated revenue for Niger State, and enhance Nigeria’s standing in regional agricultural trade. The agreement is also expected to reduce reliance on food imports, improve access to export markets, and encourage technology transfer in modern farming techniques.
The Republic of Benin’s Minister of Agriculture, who signed on behalf of his government, described the agreement as a “win-win for both nations,” stressing that closer agricultural cooperation would contribute to regional stability and prosperity.
The MoU comes at a time when Nigeria is seeking to diversify its economy away from oil dependence, with agriculture identified as a key driver of sustainable growth. Niger State, with its expansive farmlands and proximity to international borders, is seen as a strategic location for scaling up food production and agro-industrial ventures.
Observers note that the deal underscores the growing trend of subnational governments in Nigeria entering international partnerships to drive development, bypassing bureaucratic delays often associated with federal negotiations.
Implementation details, including timelines for project rollout and funding structures, are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
