Rice farming has been a long-standing tradition in Niger State, North Central Nigeria. Despite being a primary source of income, traditional farming methods often resulted in low profits due to inadequate aggregation centers, high-interest loans, and poor processing. Farmers were often forced to travel long distances to sell their products.

In 2019, the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) partnered with local farmers to enhance cultivation, production, and sales. AGRA provided training on agro-inputs, output market distribution, and rice processing. This led to the formation of the Lemu Women Rice Processors group in Gbako Local Government Area. New agro-input dealers like Tecni Seed and Da-All Green emerged, and AGRA facilitated financing through Lemu Microfinance Bank.

AGRA’s efforts have empowered youth and women, reduced food importation needs, and boosted local entrepreneurship. The Nigerian Rice Consortium, supported by the PIATA program, continues to build capacity for employment and business opportunities in the rice value chain.

Mariam, a beneficiary, stated, “AGRA’s training increased our profits. Previously, unprocessed rice sold for N300-350 per mudu; now, processed rice sells for N450-500.” With this extra profit, she is now able to meet the basic needs of her family, including providing food and clothes for her children and paying other bills.