From Olanrewaju Lawal, Birnin Kebbi
The Minister of Food and Agriculture of Ghana, Mr. Eric Opoku, has disclosed that the current Ghanian Federal Government inherited a huge import bill on the importation of rice, which prompted the delegation to visit Kebbi State on collaboration on rice production.
Opoku noted that his country, just like Nigeria, has fertile land and abundant water, which can support local production, and that was the main reason President John Mahama mandated them to come to Nigeria to understudy from the rice mills and rice plantations to achieving food self-sufficiency.
The Minister stated this during his courtesy call on the Deputy Governor of Kebbi State, Senator Umar Abubakar Tafida, in Birnin Kebbi along with his team.
The Ghanaian minister explained that the newly inaugurated Ghanaian administration, which assumed office four months ago, is seeking solutions to food production challenges.
Opoku, who is also a member of Parliament, led a high-powered delegation of agricultural experts on a tour of the WACOT Rice Mill in Argungu and selected rice Fadama sites across the state.
According to him, “we inherited a huge import bill; Ghana imports a large quantity of rice. However, we have fertile land and abundant water, which can support local production. That is why President John Mahama is committed to achieving food self-sufficiency.
“Ghana has been inspired by the success story of Kebbi State and WACOT Rice Mill in rice production, prompting the study visit.
“This is the main purpose of our mission—we are here to learn. Ghana and Nigeria share deep-rooted historical and cultural ties. We look up to Nigeria for mutual understanding and collaboration,” he added.
In his reaction on behalf of Kebbi State Governor,Dr. Nasir Idris, the Deputy Governor, Senator Umar Abubakar warmly welcomed the Ghanaian delegation and commended their interest in agricultural cooperation.
He recalled the longstanding relationship between both countries, emphasizing the role of the Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival in promoting unity, with many Ghanaian leaders regularly attending the event.
“Kebbi State is open to partnerships with Ghana, especially in agriculture. In addition to agriculture, the state is blessed with solid mineral resources such as gold and lithium, ready for exploration,” Tafida said.
He highlighted Governor Nasir Idris’ commitment to agricultural development and industrialization, citing the provision of free fertilizers, water pumps, agrochemicals, and improved seeds to farmers.
“Kebbi has maintained its position as Nigeria’s leading producer of rice and wheat. With year-round arable land and abundant water bodies, the state is well-positioned for sustained agricultural productivity,” Tafida added.
He further expressed the state’s readiness to collaborate with Ghana in areas such as capacity building, culture, and tourism to strengthen bilateral relations and cultural heritage.