The Niger State Agricultural and Mechanisation Development Authority (NAMDA) has firmly denied allegations of mischief and deceit made by the Small and Medium Scale Farmers Association (SMSFA) in Niger State.
In a recent press statement issued in Minna, the SMSFA accused NAMDA of engaging in deceitful practices in collaboration with Niger Foods Security Systems and Logistics Limited. However, NAMDA's Managing Director, Muhammad Alibaba, and the management of Niger Foods have jointly refuted these claims, labelling them as misinformation and misleading.
According to the statement, NAMDA has partnered with Niger Foods to enhance agricultural productivity and support farmers in the state by providing inputs and stipends. Small-scale farmers were advised to form cooperative societies to participate in the program, and many of these societies have already begun receiving their inputs, with more distributions expected in the coming days.
The statement further clarified that the medium-scale farmers who made the allegations had failed to meet the program's requirements by refusing to have their properties valued. Instead, they opted for a refund of their equities, which NAMDA agreed to honor. "It is essential to note that NAMDA never initiated or requested the refund of equities; this was solely the decision of the medium-scale farmers," the statement emphasised.
NAMDA reiterated its commitment to supporting farmers and alleviating their challenges in line with the agricultural policy of Governor Mohammed Umar Bago. The agency urged the public to disregard the SMSFA's press release, stating that it does not accurately represent the situation.
Niger Foods Security Systems and Logistics Limited also addressed the allegations, stating that it has no direct agreement with the SMSFA. The organisation clarified that its programs are designed for smallholder farmers and that the only medium- to large-scale farmers' programs currently running are in Mashegu, Mariga, and Wushishi local government areas, all guaranteed by the respective local authorities.
Niger Foods further disclosed that it provides inputs only to validated farmers and does not require collateral, as it is not a licensed financial institution. The validation process is ongoing to ensure that only legitimate farmers benefit from the program.