Katsina State is poised to join the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) program’s phase II, following a visit by a team from SAPZ, the African Development Bank (AFDB), and the Federal Ministry of Finance.
Dr. Kabir Yusuf, National Coordinator of the program, led his team in a meeting with Katsina Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, at the Government House. The purpose of the meeting was to assess the state’s preparedness for the program.
Governor Radda declared his strong commitment to SAPZ, noting its potential to benefit the state. He announced plans to establish three farm settlement centers specifically designed to provide agricultural training for the state’s youth. An enabling law has already been passed to facilitate their creation.
“The existing Songhai farms in Dutsinma and Mairowa, as well as the NALDA farm at Suduje in Daura, will be fully equipped to train youths in various agricultural value chains, including poultry, rabbit production, and irrigation farming,” Governor Radda stated.
The Katsina Governor also expressed interest in collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture to manage the NALDA farm in Daura. Additionally, the establishment of an irrigation authority aims to provide opportunities for young people and address potential restiveness.
Governor Radda pledged to provide basic infrastructure at identified irrigation sites to keep young people engaged in agricultural activities. This initiative is aimed at combating poverty, creating jobs, and steering youth away from banditry and other poverty-related crimes.
“We are grateful for Katsina’s inclusion in the program’s second phase,” Governor Radda concluded. “We are committed to fulfilling all conditions to ensure its timely launch in our state.”
In a prior address, Dr. Kabir Yusuf, National Coordinator of the SAPZ program, had highlighted its potential to invigorate Nigeria’s agricultural sector. He emphasized its focus on supporting inclusive and sustainable agro-industrial growth, alongside objectives such as economic diversification and reducing the nation’s food import bill.
Dr. Yusuf described SAPZ as a catalyst for attracting private sector investment in transforming raw agricultural products into high-value goods. This strategic approach, he explained, holds the key to unlocking a future of enhanced food security, increased job creation, and boosted export earnings for the state.
A key highlight of the visit was the visual presentation showcasing the SAPZ concept.
*Signed*
**Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed**
**Chief Press Secretary to Katsina Governor**
