A new ultra-modern seed processing factory has been launched in northern Nigeria as part of efforts to strengthen food systems and climate resilience across the region.
The facility, operated by Premier Seeds Nigeria Ltd, was officially inaugurated on Tuesday by former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Gombe State Governor Inuwa Yahaya, with funding and technical assistance provided by the UK Government’s FCDO through its Propcom+ programme.
Located within the Gombe Industrial Park, the plant is designed to meet the seed needs of the region’s predominantly agrarian population. Governor Yahaya noted that more than 80% of Gombe’s residents depend on agriculture, calling the new facility “a game-changer” for local farmers.
“The high-quality, climate-adapted seeds produced here will improve crop yields and build resilience against drought, pests, and flooding,” he said.
Obasanjo, who founded Premier Seeds, said the factory reflects Nigeria’s potential for agricultural advancement when supported by public-private collaboration. He applauded the Gombe State government for investing in infrastructure that fosters job creation and economic growth.
NASC Director-General, Fatuhu Buhari, said the initiative aligns with federal strategies on agricultural reform and contributes directly to the national agenda of achieving food security and creating rural employment opportunities.
Dr Adiya Ode, representing the UK-funded Propcom+ initiative, explained that the seed processing facility would help reduce the price of certified seeds and improve accessibility for smallholder farmers.
“Strengthening the seed value chain is critical for sustainable farming,” she said. “This facility delivers high-yield, disease-resistant, and nutritionally fortified seed varieties that can withstand Nigeria’s increasingly erratic climate.”
Premier Seeds’ Managing Director, Dr Ibitoye Oyewale, said the new plant boosts the company’s processing capacity by over 70%, expanding from 20 to 35 metric tonnes per hour.
“This will allow us to reach more farmers and enhance agricultural productivity on a larger scale,” he said.
