Dikko Radda, Katsina State Governor marks his first anniversary in office in a unique way. He chose the time to commence the sale of fertilisers to farmers at subsidised rates. The exercise will see farmers participating in the sale of 400, 000 bags of fertilisers for 2024 cropping season. That was not the only thing that farmers enjoyed at the event. The government also gave out 722 motorcycles and knapsack sprayers to extension workers across the 361 wards in the state.
Radda at the distribution exercise in Katsina said that the sale of the inputs will enhance farmer support services and mark a significant milestone in his commitment to economic empowerment and agricultural development, as well as to transform the agricultural landscape of the state.
Hear him, “Extension agents play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between our agricultural policies and the grassroots level. By equipping them with the necessary tools, we empower them to reach remote areas, provide valuable expertise, and support our farmers in adopting modern farming practices.
“The distribution and sales of fertiliser for the 2024 farming season underscores our unwavering commitment to ensuring food security and boosting agricultural productivity.”
The governor said that his government aimed to catalyse agricultural growth, alleviate poverty and stimulate economic development across the state.
He said, ”We recognise that agriculture is the backbone of our economy, and by investing in the sector, we lay the foundation for sustainable progress and prosperity for generations to come.
”As we embark on this journey towards a more vibrant and resilient agricultural sector, let us remain steadfast in our determination to harness the full potential of our land and resources.
” Together, we can build a future where every farmer thrives, every community flourishes and our state emerges as a beacon of Agricultural excellence”.
Ahmed Bakori, commissioner for agriculture and livestock, in his earlier remarks said one of the key initiatives by the present administration in the state was the promotion of dry season farming. He said, ” By revitalising these flagship agricultural enterprises, our state is poised to harness modern technologies and best practices to drive productivity, create employment opportunities and promote agribusiness development.”
He disclosed that the state government had invested N234 million to support 550 women farmers affected by banditry. Not only that, he said, ” Also, over N339 million has been invested in 3,876 women whose businesses were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“And this brings the total money invested in women within the last year for agricultural entrepreneurship to N584.8 million”.
