The Jigawa Agricultural Transformation Agency (Jigawa-ATA) is a strategic government body spearheading the transition from traditional, subsistence farming to a modern, commercialized, and technology-driven agri-food system in Jigawa State. Founded in 2025, Jigawa-ATA's vision is to leverage the state's vast agricultural potential to enhance food security, create sustainable jobs, and empower rural communities. Operating on a lean, three-pillar model, Jigawa-ATA ensures its activities are data-driven (Analytics), efficiently executed on the ground (Delivery), and supported by robust administrative systems (Operations). The agency's work is inspired by successful agricultural transformation models from across Africa and is designed to position Jigawa as a leading hub for agribusiness in Nigeria and West Africa.
Jigawa-ATA's core mandate is to serve as the central coordinating and implementing institution for all state agricultural reforms. The agency's vision is to harness Jigawa's agricultural potential to create a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable agri-food system. This is achieved by consolidating various government initiatives under a single, efficient, and results-oriented agency, marking a strategic shift towards a holistic, integrated approach to development.
Established in 2025, Jigawa-ATA was inspired by successful African Agricultural Transformation Initiatives demonstrated at the Africa Food System Summit in Rwanda. These models, which transformed agricultural sectors in countries like Ethiopia, Sudan, Uganda, and Sierra Leone with support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, African Development Bank, and Mastercard Foundation, provided a blueprint for strategic, large-scale interventions. The formation of Jigawa-ATA represents a direct commitment to adapting these proven approaches to Jigawa's unique context. Our mandate is to drive the transition from subsistence farming to a commercialized agricultural economy. This includes promoting advanced farming techniques, facilitating access to modern technology, and supporting farmers with data-driven insights and robust operational frameworks to enhance productivity and sustainability.
