Bauchi Secures $158M to Boost Agriculture Through Landmark Value Chain Deal
By Abdulwahab Muhammad BauchÃ
The Deputy Governor of Bauchi State, Rt. Hon. Mohammed Auwal Jatau, on Wednesday signed a financial agreement on behalf of Governor Bala Mohammed for the implementation of the Value Chain Programme in Bauchi State.
The $158 million project, aimed at transforming agricultural productivity and economic resilience, will be implemented across ten states: Bauchi, Borno, Yobe, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kebbi. It is co-funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), the French Development Agency (AFD), and the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Speaking at the signing ceremony held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Deputy Governor Jatau reaffirmed Bauchi State’s commitment to the successful implementation of the initiative. He described the Value Chain Programme as a strategic intervention aligned with Governor Bala Mohammed’s vision to harness the state’s vast agricultural potential, stimulate industrial growth, generate employment, and improve citizens’ livelihoods.
“This momentous occasion marks a significant stride in our collective journey towards sustainable development, food security, and economic empowerment,” he stated. “Under the leadership of our amiable Governor, Bauchi State has developed a robust agricultural development plan that leverages our land resources to unlock industrial potential.”
Highlighting recent achievements, the Deputy Governor announced that Bauchi State has attained certification as a food export processing zone — a milestone that reflects the administration's resolve to position the state in regional and global agricultural markets.
He further assured that the government will continue to provide a conducive environment for the successful implementation of the Value Chain Programme. “Our administration is committed to policies that support agricultural development, ease of doing business, and encourage private sector investment,” he said.
Deputy Governor Jatau also cited Bauchi’s participation in the World Bank’s State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER) as a testament to the government’s commitment to reform and performance-driven governance.
He expressed appreciation to all development partners, stakeholders, and supporting agencies for their steadfast collaboration, which he said paves the way for a prosperous and sustainable future for the people of Bauchi State.
Muslim Lawal, anipr
Special Assistant (Media)
Deputy Governor’s Office, Bauchi State
May 7, 2025