The Katsina State Government has announced plans to establish a dedicated agricultural research institute in a move aimed at revolutionising farming practices, boosting food production, and improving the livelihoods of thousands of farmers across the state.

Governor Dikko Umar Radda disclosed the initiative on Wednesday while receiving the leadership of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Katsina State chapter, led by its chairman, Alhaji Ya’u Umar Gwajo-Gwajo, at the Government House in Katsina.

The proposed institute, according to the governor, will serve as a hub for agricultural research, innovation, and the development of modern farming solutions tailored to the needs of farmers in the state. It is expected to focus on improved farm inputs, climate-smart agricultural practices, modern technologies, and research-driven strategies capable of increasing productivity and strengthening food security.

Radda said the establishment of the institute reflects his administration’s determination to reposition agriculture as a major driver of economic growth and sustainable development in the state.

He noted that Katsina’s economy remains heavily dependent on agriculture, with an overwhelming majority of residents relying on farming and livestock production either directly or indirectly for their livelihood.

According to the governor, the sector deserves greater investment and institutional support if it is to reach its full potential and meet the growing demand for food production.

“Agriculture remains the backbone of our economy. Nearly 90 per cent of our people are engaged in farming and livestock activities in one form or another. This makes it imperative for us to invest in research, innovation and modern agricultural practices that can improve productivity and farmers’ incomes,” he said.

Radda expressed confidence that the state possesses the expertise and manpower required to establish and successfully manage the institute. He added that Katsina could draw valuable lessons from similar agricultural initiatives implemented in neighbouring states, particularly Jigawa.

The governor further highlighted ongoing efforts by his administration to modernise agriculture and reduce dependence on outdated farming methods. He said the government is gradually transitioning farmers from traditional practices to mechanised agriculture through strategic investments in tractors, power tillers, irrigation facilities, improved seed varieties, fertilisers, and extension services.

Advertisement

Beyond increasing crop yields, Radda revealed that plans are also underway to establish processing and value-addition centres within farming communities. The initiative, he explained, would help reduce post-harvest losses, create employment opportunities, strengthen agricultural value chains, and enable farmers to earn more from their produce.

The governor said the combination of research, mechanisation, and value addition would position Katsina as a leading agricultural hub and contribute significantly to efforts aimed at achieving food sufficiency.

Speaking during the visit, AFAN Chairman Ya’u Umar Gwajo-Gwajo praised the state government for its continued commitment to supporting farmers despite security challenges affecting some farming areas.

He acknowledged the progress already recorded in the agricultural sector under the current administration and commended efforts to ensure farmers have access to their farmlands.

Gwajo-Gwajo described the proposed agricultural research institute as a timely intervention that could provide farmers with the technical support, innovation, and knowledge needed to improve productivity and adopt modern farming practices.

He expressed optimism that the initiative would open new opportunities for agricultural development, encourage fresh investments in the sector, and accelerate Katsina State’s drive toward greater food production and economic prosperity.

With agriculture employing the vast majority of the state's population, the planned institute is expected to become a cornerstone of Katsina’s long-term strategy to strengthen food security, empower farmers, and unlock the enormous potential of its agricultural economy.