Smart agro hub initiative set to revolutionise agriculture in Adamawa

In a significant move to enhance food production and security in Nigeria’s Northeast, Mustapha Barkindo , the Lamido of Adamawa, has approved the allocation of 2,000 hectares of land for the development of a modern agricultural hub

This ambitious project is expected to change the landscape of farming in the region and provide jobs for over 10,000 youths.

The initiative, known as the Adamawa State Agricultural Hub, is part of the ACReSAL programme and will be led by Business Development Managers Consultancy Services (BDMCs). It is being developed in collaboration with the Adamawa Emirate Council and the state government, with the aim of transforming agriculture into a more innovative, productive, and economically viable sector.

Abubakar Umar, chairman of BDMCs’ board of directors, announced during a briefing at the Lamido’s palace that the land will host an integrated agricultural platform. This will include every stage of the value chain—cultivation, harvesting, processing, packaging, and export. Crops such as yellow maize, sesame seeds, ginger, turmeric, soybeans, and hibiscus are prioritised for production, reflecting both local demand and export potential.

In addition to crop cultivation, the hub will support livestock and fisheries. Plans include goat and poultry farming, cattle rearing, milk production, animal fattening, and aquaculture. These sectors will help diversify agricultural activities while providing multiple streams of income for local farmers.

Representing the Lamido, Umar Yahaya,  the secretary of the Emirate, reaffirmed support for the project, describing it as a timely and strategic intervention. “This is a partnership that will drive economic development, youth empowerment, and food security in Adamawa state,” he said.

The project carries an estimated investment of US$80mn, largely backed by American investors, while technical support and machinery will come from Chinese partners. Peter Olayinka, vice chairman of BDMCs, highlighted the broader ambition behind the project. “The hub will create at least 10,000 direct and indirect jobs, boost internally generated revenue, and enhance agricultural research and training,” he stated. He also mentioned that Osun and Delta States have been identified as the next phases of the rollout.

A major part of the initiative is the dredging of nearby rivers to enable all-year-round farming. The adoption of modern technologies like all-crop sensing and greenhouse systems will also be introduced to boost productivity.

Furthermore, the project includes plans for a Tropical Institute of Agriculture. This institute will offer practical training to participants from across Nigeria, focusing on crops suited to each state’s specific strengths. Trainees will receive financial support and their produce will be collected for export.

To complement these developments, an agro-city will be constructed within the hub. This will feature administrative buildings, hostels, a farm market square, a three-star hotel, an aquatic farm restaurant, and even a helipad to improve investor access.