Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, announced on Monday, upon his return from a one-month vacation, that the state government will invest N30 billion in irrigation farming to boost the agricultural sector. The governor expressed his commitment to moving the state forward.
The primary objective of this investment is to enhance irrigation systems, enabling farmers to cultivate crops throughout the year, rather than limiting farming to the rainy season. A portion of the funds will be allocated for establishing agricultural mechanized centers in each of the state’s 34 local government areas.
These centers will provide training on modern agricultural techniques and supply farmers with necessary facilities, thereby increasing their productivity and efficiency.
Additionally, Governor Radda highlighted his recent visit to China, which aimed to secure partnerships and investments to develop the Katsina State agricultural sector, further solidifying the state’s commitment to agricultural growth and development.
“With about 90 per cent of our population engaged in farming, these collaborations will significantly benefit our people and boost our state’s economy,” Mr Radda stated.
The governor also revealed his plans to embark on a tour across the three senatorial zones in the state to engage stakeholders on community priority-based projects.
According to him, the tour, which will include town hall meetings, is aimed at ensuring that government policies align with the needs and aspirations of the people.
He said his administration was doing its best to reduce peoples’ hardship, especially through his various empowerment programmes.
The governor reiterated his sympathy for victims of banditry attacks in the state and promised increased government commitment to addressing security challenges.
He said his administration planned to recruit and train young men from selected local governments for the Katsina Security Watch Corps, reinforcing the state’s security apparatus.
Mr Radda commended his deputy, Faruk Jobe, for his leadership as the acting governor and thanked the State House of Assembly for its cooperation in repositioning the state.
