Katsina Govt, IsDB partner to boost agricultural production
Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has said the state is committing resources to boost agricultural production and would welcome partnership to achieve the desired impact.
The Governor stated this when he received a delegation from the Islamic Development Bank, IsDB, led by Dr. Masuda Saidova, during a working visit to the state.
He described the visit as timely, noting that the IsDB has been supporting his administration’s plan to grow agriculture, create jobs and reduce poverty.
“We are not just waiting for support. We are investing our own resources and working with partners to achieve more,” the governor said.
He stressed that agriculture remains the main source of livelihood for most residents, especially in rural areas, where many depend on farming for survival.
Radda said the government is taking steps to help farmers earn more by improving storage, processing and reducing post-harvest losses.
According to him, the high cost of farming inputs has been a challenge, even as the government distributes subsidized fertiliser to farmers to ease the burden.
He also said that the government has been supporting farmers to improve productivity through the use of quality seeds and extension services, with over 800 trained personnel supporting farmers across communities.
On irrigation, the governor told the IsDB delegation that state is investing in year-round farming through the provision of tube wells and solar-powered irrigation pumps for irrigation.
He added that the administration is also supporting women and rural households through livestock programmes and expanding mechanised farming to improve efficiency.
Radda said investment in agriculture is key to tackling unemployment and insecurity, as engagement in farming will improve livelihoods and reduce social challenges among the state’s vast youth population.
He assured the delegation of the state’s full support in delivering projects and ensuring transparency in all interventions.
The Islamic Development Bank delegation, after inspecting key project sites, commended the state’s efforts and pledged support for large-scale agricultural hubs to boost food production, create jobs and improve livelihoods.
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