{Japan Supports Rice Seed Production and Agricultural Mechanization in Nigeria}

On 10 August 2026, H.E. Ambassador Suzuki Hideo participated in the Official Handover Ceremony of the Project for the Enhancement of Rice Seed Production System in Nigeria, held at the National Cereals Research Institute (NCRI) in Badeggi, Niger State. 

Prior to the ceremony, Ambassador Suzuki met with H.E. Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, CON, Honourable Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, and discussed on the longstanding partnership between Nigeria and Japan, as well as Japan’s continued support for Nigeria’s agricultural development, particularly in the rice sector. 

Supported by the Government of Japan through Grant Aid, the project provides modern agricultural machinery and equipment, alongside technical assistance and training, to strengthen Nigeria’s rice seed production system, promote agricultural mechanisation, and contribute to food security. 

In his remarks, Ambassador Suzuki reaffirmed Japan’s commitment, as expressed at TICAD 9, to supporting African countries in achieving sustainable economic growth, food security, and resilient agricultural systems. He emphasised Japan’s continued commitment to working with Nigeria to strengthen agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods and encouraged to ensure the proper maintenance and effective utilisation of the equipment. 

The ceremony brought together representatives of the Government of Japan, JICA, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, National Cereals Research Institute (NCRI), and other stakeholders. The handover marks another milestone in the longstanding Japan–Nigeria partnership and demonstrates Japan’s continued commitment to sustainable agricultural development and food security in Nigeria.