By Danjuma Attah, Gombe
The African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) and the Gombe State Government have held a strategic meeting towards strengthening their ties to transform agriculture and boost production in the State and the Northeast region.
This was the outcome of the special session held in the office of the State Deputy Governor, Dr. Manasseh Daniel Jatau and officials of the AATF led by Dr. Kayode Sanni, who were on a tour of some States.
The AATF team who came to Nigeria from Nairobi, Kenya, praised Gombe state’s commitment to food security and stressed the importance of building sustainable partnerships through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs).
Dr. Sanni outlined the Foundation’s mission since its establishment in 2003 to serve as a technology broker for African farmers, most of whom are smallholders.
He highlighted AATF’s innovative efforts, including the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), agricultural mechanisation, remote sensing, and artificial intelligence to drive productivity.
“We are starting in Gombe with the aim of expanding across other states. Our drought-tolerant and insect-resistant seeds can significantly raise maize yields from 2-3 tonnes per hectare to 6-7 tonnes,” he explained.
In a power point presentation, Dr. Sylvester Oikeh of AATF further elaborated on these innovations showcasing data and imagery that underscored the potential of emerging agricultural technologies.
In his remarks, the Gombe State Deputy Governor, Dr. Manasseh Daniel Jatau, described AATF’s visit as timely and essential for the advancement of agriculture in the Northeast, where over 80% of the population relies on farming.
He emphasised that while agriculture ranks fourth among the State’s development priorities—after security, health, and education—it remains foundational due to its role in economic diversification and employment.
“Your presence here helps fill the gap left by the dwindling agricultural extension services. We deeply appreciate your effort to train our farmers and promote best practices in sustainable agriculture,” Dr. Jatau stated.
He further disclosed that Gombe is making strides toward becoming an agricultural hub, referencing developments at the Muhammadu Buhari Industrial Park in Dadinkowa, where companies like Premier Seeds are setting up operations. “We welcome this move, as quality seed production is key to sustainable farming and increased yields,” he added.
Earlier in the event, the Principal Private Secretary to the Governor and Permanent Secretary at the Government House, Professor Mu’azu Shehu, noted that the visit aligns with Gombe State’s broader agricultural agenda, which includes collaboration with Michigan State University through the Bill Gates Foundation.
He revealed plans to establish a Faculty of Agriculture at the Gombe State University which is aimed at positioning the State as a future centre for agricultural education and value chain development.
The session concluded with a renewed sense of optimism and mutual commitment to driving agricultural transformation across the region, starting with Gombe State.
End.
