Niger State Government has signed a multi-billion dollar Memorandum of Understanding with the Republic of Benin for the production of cotton, maize, and soya through Sonama AG Mech Ltd.
The agreement, signed in Cotonou, aims to produce 450,000 tons of cotton and cultivate 550,000 hectares of land by 2030 under crop rotation, potentially creating one million jobs.
The project will establish 55 technical centers, provide training, subsidized seeds, and irrigation solutions.
Governor Umaru Bago praised the collaboration, aiming to leverage Benin’s expertise and attract further agricultural investments.
The first year targets 20,000 hectares, scaling to 450,000 hectares by 2030, with projected annual yields of $739 million.
The initiative aims to reduce food imports and enhance agricultural trade between both parties.