KATSINA – In its efforts to revamp agriculture and enhance food security, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina state has on Wednesday launched the first phase of the Dry Season Agricultural Initiative Programme at the Gwaigwaye irrigation site in Dikke ward, Funtua local government of the state.

The initiative is aimed at empowering 2,040 farmers across the state’s thirty-four local government areas and provide free dry season inputs.

Governor Radda, in his address, highlighted his administration’s commitment to agricultural development and recognizing farming as a crucial drive of economic growth.

He expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Agriculture, local government and chieftaincy affairs, and the local governments involved, emphasizing that, the programme’s potential was meant to reduce poverty, create jobs, and boost the state’s revenue.

Acknowledging the significance of proper farming techniques, the governor said government would train and the deploy extension workers to guide farmers for optimal results.

He however called on all local government chairmen to replicate the programme, stressing that, its non-partisan nature.

Professor Ahmed Mohammed Bakori, the state Commissioner of Agriculture in his remarks, said 2,040 farmers would receive support with improved seeds, fertilizer and pesticide chemicals.

He added that, government’s investment in irrigation infrastructure would also include 204 tube wells and solar-powered water pumping machines at various sites.

Professor Badamasi Lawal Charanci, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, on his part, clarified that the initiative was in fulfillment of Governor Radda’s election promise, adding that, sixty farmers from each local government area would benefit in the first phase, with plans for the second phase launch next week.

Engineer Bello Lawal Yandaki, the ALGON state Chairman in his address, expressed gratitude for the governor’s support and pledged diligent monitoring by council chairmen to ensure the effective utilization of inputs for improved food production and security.

Culled from Independent Newspapers