By Muhammad Sani Muazu
Stakeholders in Bauchi State’s agricultural sector convened at an interactive forum to address pressing issues in the industry, with a key focus on the importance of the annual agricultural performance survey (AAPS) and the agricultural production survey (APS). These surveys, conducted nationwide, provide critical data for improving agricultural planning and decision-making.
Abdulrahman Barau, Director of Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation at the Bauchi State Agricultural Development Program (BSADP), underscored the significance of both surveys in evaluating agricultural activities across Nigeria. According to Barau, the AAPS is organized by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with the National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS) at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria, while the APS is conducted by the Evaluation Department of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture.
“These surveys allow us to gather data directly from farmers across various local government areas,” Barau said. “This year, we selected communities in Gamawa, Zaki, Ganjuwa, and Warji Local Government Areas, where we interacted with farmers and gathered valuable information on the performance of agricultural activities.”
Barau revealed that the surveys faced some logistical challenges this year, which hindered full participation from key BSADP units such as pest control, livestock, and media departments. Additionally, farmers in certain areas reported a new issue—a pest infestation affecting sesame and beniseed crops. A team of scientists has already collected samples for research, with recommendations for treatment expected soon.
“Despite these challenges, the farmers were highly cooperative, and the team of scientists was satisfied with the quality of information gathered,” Barau noted.
Iliya Gidado Sambo, a farmer and development expert who attended the forum, highlighted the importance of accurate data collection in driving development in the agricultural sector. He praised the forum for focusing on the issue of data collection, analysis, and documentation, which are crucial for planning and policy formulation.
“Data is essential for proper planning, whether it’s used by the government or the private sector. Even though implementation can be a challenge, we must continue producing data, as it forms the foundation for decision-making,” Sambo said.
Sambo expressed concern over Bauchi State’s ranking in food security, which is currently the lowest in the country, and urged the state government to take immediate action.
“Bauchi is ranked 46th in terms of food security. This is alarming, but I believe the governor and the Commissioner of Agriculture can address this issue. Citizens must also support these efforts to ensure progress,” he added.
The forum provided an opportunity for agricultural stakeholders to discuss the challenges facing the sector, with a shared commitment to improving Bauchi’s agricultural output and ensuring food security in the state.