In a recent revelation, it has been clarified that the impressive 200-hectare rice project in Magboro, Ogun State, widely believed to be a government initiative, is actually the brainchild of Alh Bello Zabarmawa. Zabarmawa, a distinguished businessman and Senior Special Adviser to the Kebbi State Government, has been instrumental in driving this agricultural venture.
The confusion arose from a statement made during the rice harvest inauguration, which highlighted the Ogun State Government’s role in the project. Governor Dapo Abiodun had been reported as having launched the harvest, celebrating Ogun State’s advancement into rice production and positioning it as a major player in the industry. This was part of a broader Ogun State Economic Transformation Project supported by the World Bank, aimed at boosting local agriculture, food security, and employment.
However, Zabarmawa has set the record straight, revealing that the project was funded and managed privately by him, with the support of his team and local farmers. He first identified the fertile land in Ogun State in 2019 and invested significantly to develop it. This included clearing the land, providing loans to local farmers, and managing the logistics and operations of the farm.
While the Ogun State Government provided initial assistance, including financial aid for land clearing and fertilizer costs, Zabarmawa has shouldered most of the financial burden. His commitment has not only involved substantial personal investment but also the mobilization of local labor and resources to drive the project’s success.
Despite the significant strides made, Zabarmawa has called for further government intervention to address ongoing challenges. The major issues currently affecting the project include:
1. Irrigation and Rainfall: The lack of adequate rainfall has adversely impacted rice yields. Zabarmawa has requested support for solar-powered irrigation systems to ensure consistent water supply for the crops.
2. Bird Infestation: Birds have become a major threat to the rice production, causing considerable damage. Zabarmawa suggests that the government could help by providing specialized chemicals or technology to repel birds, as well as clearing surrounding forests where the birds may be nesting.
3. Infrastructure: The need for better access roads to the farms is critical. Although the Ogun State Governor had previously pledged to reconstruct the Magboro-Makogi Road, the project’s completion is crucial for improving logistics and market access for the farmers.
4. Chemical Supplies and Equipment: The rapid growth of grasses on the virgin land requires ongoing management. Zabarmawa has highlighted the need for more effective chemicals to control grass growth and prevent additional costs.
Zabarmawa’s appeal emphasizes the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing agricultural challenges and fostering sustainable development. By working together, he believes that the potential of the Magboro rice project could be fully realized, benefiting both the local community and the broader region.
In summary, while the Ogun State Government’s involvement in the project has been acknowledged, the true credit for the rice farm’s establishment and management lies with Alh Bello Zabarmawa. His call for further support underlines the need for continued collaboration to overcome the obstacles facing the project and to ensure its long-term success and contribution to regional food security.
