By Ibrahim Muhammad
The Jigawa State Agricultural Transformation Agency (JATA) has launched an improved cowpea seed multiplication initiative following the receipt of foundation seeds of five improved cowpea varieties aimed at boosting seed production and enhancing farmers’ productivity across the state.
The improved varieties—SAMPEA 14, SAMPEA 18, SAMPEA 19, SAMPEA 21 and FUAMPEA 1—will be multiplied into certified seeds and demonstrated on selected farms to ensure farmers gain access to high-quality planting materials capable of increasing yields and improving resilience.
JATA said the initiative is part of its strategic commitment to strengthening the state’s seed system through the multiplication of foundation seeds into certified seeds that will ultimately be made available to farmers.
It will also assess the performance, adaptability and yield potential of the improved varieties under Jigawa’s agro-ecological conditions.
The multiplication and demonstration activities will be carried out in Garki, Babura, Birniwa, Dutse and Kiyawa Local Government Areas, where selected farmers and agricultural extension personnel will establish and manage demonstration plots.
According to the agency, the improved cowpea varieties possess superior agronomic characteristics, including higher grain yields, improved adaptability, enhanced resistance to major pests and diseases, and better tolerance to environmental stresses.
Their adoption is expected to improve productivity, increase household incomes and strengthen food and nutritional security across Jigawa State.
Speaking on the development, JATA Director of Delivery, Dr. Imam Isah Musa, who represented the Director-General of the agency, Dr. Saifullahi Umar, described the initiative as another milestone in the agency’s efforts to modernise agriculture through improved technologies and strategic partnerships.
He said the programme would provide farmers with access to quality seeds capable of delivering higher yields, greater resilience and better economic returns, while supporting Governor Umar Namadi’s agricultural transformation agenda.
Dr. Isah reaffirmed JATA’s commitment to collaborating with agricultural research institutes, seed companies, development partners and farming communities to accelerate the multiplication and adoption of improved crop varieties across the state.
He added that the agency would continue promoting climate-smart agricultural technologies, improving farmers’ access to quality inputs and strengthening agricultural value chains to enhance food security and economic growth in Jigawa State.
