By Abdullahi Lukman
The Federal Government has approved a N25 billion intervention fund for the newly commissioned Katsina Agricultural Mechanized Centre, a major step toward boosting food security and reducing Nigeria’s dependence on oil.
Governor Dikko Umar Radda disclosed the approval in a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
The fund facilitated the purchase of 400 tractors to serve the state’s 34 local government areas and support large-scale mechanized farming.
The announcement came during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s two-day working visit to Katsina, where he commissioned several projects, including the agricultural centre and a newly completed 24-kilometre Eastern Bypass road.
The bypass connects Dutsin-ma Road through Kano and Daura Roads to Yandaki in Kaita Local Government Area.
Speaking at the commissioning, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of agriculture in ensuring national stability and growth.
He described hunger and poverty as the greatest threats to peace and urged state governors to invest in agriculture instead of relying solely on federal allocations from oil revenue.
“The economy is moving in the right direction,” Tinubu said. “We are committed to food security and the empowerment of our people. Farming, both small and large scale, will be the foundation of our prosperity.”
The President also announced plans to revitalize the Bank of Agriculture to provide better financial support for farmers across the country.
Governor Radda highlighted further progress in Katsina, including the construction and rehabilitation of 160 kilometres of road, improvement in power supply, water infrastructure, and healthcare services.
He added that 448,000 metric tonnes of fertilizer were distributed to farmers last year, with 400,000 tonnes planned for this year. Additionally, 4,000 pumping machines have been supplied to enhance irrigation.
President Tinubu concluded his visit by commending the Katsina State government for its commitment to development and thanking traditional leaders for promoting peace and unity in the region.
