Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has commended the Taraba State Green House, popularly known as the Cucumber Farm, describing it as a landmark initiative that could guarantee food security and tackle hunger across the North-East and Nigeria at large.
Zulum made the remarks during the commissioning of the remodelled Green House Farm in Jalingo, as part of the North-East Governors’ Forum summit. The forum, however, raised concerns about a possible food shortage in 2026, stressing the need for urgent solutions.
A statement issued by Emmanuel Bello, Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communications to Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State, described the inauguration as a revolutionary milestone in agriculture.
According to Bello, the world-class facility deploys advanced technology that enables all-year-round cultivation of vegetables, irrespective of climatic conditions. He noted that Taraba’s famous green peppers and tomatoes are now rated among the best in the Nigerian market for their freshness, nutritional value, and quality.
“Governor Agbu Kefas led other five governors to commission the remodelled Green House Farm. The locals call it the Cucumber Farm, but it is actually one of the most sophisticated greenhouses in the country,” Bello said.
He added that the project is being driven by experts, including Ohad Shtilman and Eyal Tal, working with the Taraba State Investment (TSI) team to ensure sustainability and avoid past pitfalls that once led to its collapse.
“The market is already responding positively, with buyers and sellers trooping in to take advantage of the business. Investors, too, are showing renewed interest in the highly profitable venture,” Bello added.
Apart from Governor Kefas, the commissioning ceremony was attended by Zulum and other governors of the North-East: Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa, Bala Mohammed of Bauchi, Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe, and Mai Mala Buni of Yobe.
The project is expected to play a crucial role in addressing food insecurity in the region, while positioning Taraba as Nigeria’s hub for vegetable production.
