Gombe State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to agricultural development as it hosted a high-level delegation from the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF).
The interactive session, which was under the auspices of the Deputy Governor of Gombe State, Manassah Daniel Jatau, focused on leveraging modern agricultural technology to boost productivity and enhance food security.
Welcoming the delegation, the Deputy Governor, described the visit by AATF 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.
Responding on behalf of the AATF delegation, Dr. Kayode Sanni, AATF Team Leader from Nairobi, Kenya, acknowledged the longstanding discussions between the Foundation and Gombe State.
He praised the state’s commitment to food security and stressed the importance of building sustainable partnerships through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs).
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.
Dr. Sylvester Oikeh of AATF further elaborated on these innovations through a visual presentation, showcasing data and imagery that underscored the potential of emerging agricultural technologies.