TASBISA Targets 20 Hectares For Ginger, Soya Beans, Maize, Sesame Seed Farming

The Taraba State Bio-Entrepreneurship Innovation and Solution Agency (TASBISA) has commenced plans to cultivate about 20 hectares of ginger, maize, soya beans and sesame seeds across the state as part of efforts to boost agricultural productivity.

The Executive Vice Chairman of TASBISA, Elder Josiah Bitrus Habu, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the Aku Uka of Wukari, His Royal Majesty Dr. Manu Ishaku Adda Ali, at his palace in Wukari.

Habu said the agency, established by Governor Agbu Kefas, has already begun operations at its headquarters in Nakambo, in line with the governor’s directive for immediate action and measurable impact.

“Following our inauguration, His Excellency directed us to commence work without delay and report on the impact of our activities within a specified timeframe. That is why we are here to brief His Royal Majesty and seek support for the success of this initiative,” he said.

He explained that TASBISA’s intervention is aimed at supporting farmers with modern agricultural inputs and mechanised services, including tractors and bulldozers, to enhance productivity.

Habu also revealed that the United States government, through its Ambassador on International Trade Mission–Africa and Sarauniya of Ganye Chiefdom, Mrs. Patricia Yakubu, has approved a large-scale agricultural partnership targeting up to 20,000 hectares for the cultivation of the selected crops.

According to him, the agency’s international partners will provide improved seedlings and soil enhancers, while also serving as off-takers by purchasing the produce upon harvest.

He called on traditional rulers to mobilise farmers willing to engage in mechanised agriculture, noting that the programme would initially focus on selected locations but expand statewide in subsequent phases.

In her remarks, Mrs. Yakubu commended Governor Kefas for his commitment to grassroots development and agricultural transformation.

She expressed confidence in Taraba State’s agricultural potential, citing previous engagements in the state and her participation in investment initiatives such as Taravest.

The ambassador disclosed that the United States is prepared to support the development of dry sea ports in Taraba if the project succeeds, to facilitate direct export of agricultural produce to international markets.

“The sea ports of Philadelphia and Port Elizabeth in New Jersey are ready to receive products from Taraba State,” she said, adding that the initiative is part of a broader effort to connect African states to global markets.

Responding, the Aku Uka appreciated the state government and TASBISA for the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention to revitalise agriculture in the state.

He noted that while Taraba has abundant land and willing farmers, challenges such as processing and storage have hindered optimal productivity.

“We have the land and the farmers, but our major challenge has been processing and storage. With this intervention, we are hopeful that these gaps will be addressed,” the monarch said, while pledging his support for the success of the programme.

Earlier, during a stopover at the TASBISA headquarters in Nakambo, Habu informed the host community of the agency’s readiness to begin operations, adding that a groundbreaking ceremony for the project would be held in the coming weeks.

Members of the delegation included the Commissioner for Social Development and Human Services, Hon. Phillip James, as well as board members and staff of the agency