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Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has received the Director General of the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA), Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, at Government House, Katsina.
The Governor pledged his administration’s full support for groundbreaking partnerships that will establish a high-capacity meat hub in Nigeria and revive cotton production in the state.
The NBRDA Director General visited Katsina to formalize a strategic partnership agreement with Dar Al-Halal Animal Farm, led by its Chairman, Alhaji Muhammadu Dikko Ladan, who accompanied Prof. Mustapha to the Government House.
Alhaji Ladan explained that the partnership aims to establish a state-of-the-art meat hub that will position Nigeria as a major player in the international beef export market.
“The initiative promises to enhance food and nutrition security, significantly increase livestock output, and create substantial employment opportunities for local farmers and communities across the state,” the Chairman added.
During the meeting, Prof. Mustapha outlined the agency’s vision and its role in advancing Nigeria’s socio-economic development through innovative research in biotechnology. He emphasized the importance of exploring collaborative efforts with the state to enhance food security, alleviate poverty, and create job opportunities.
Governor Radda highlighted the challenges faced by local farmers, particularly the decline in cotton production due to low-quality seeds. He noted that these challenges have deterred many farmers from cultivating cotton, resulting in significant reduction in yields.
“Our administration is committed to reviving cotton production in Katsina State by providing improved seeds and creating a conducive environment for our farmers,” he stated.
The Governor further revealed that his government is investing heavily in agricultural initiatives, including the distribution of fertilizers and other necessary inputs to support farmers. He stressed that agriculture remains the most effective means of improving the livelihoods of the people in Katsina State.
Expressing his excitement about the private sector-led initiative, Governor Radda stated: “These are the things I like seeing happening – private initiative taking the bull by the horn. Ours is to provide an enabling environment for things like this to thrive.”
The Governor assured the investors of his government’s unwavering support, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to creating conducive business environments that attract and sustain agricultural investments in the state.
He called for the NBRDA to collaborate closely with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development in the state to develop a comprehensive plan for the partnership.
Prof. Mustapha commended Governor Radda for the remarkable achievements recorded by his administration within two years in office.
Through this collaboration, both the state and the NBRDA will enhance cotton production and establish the meat hub project, which possesses potential to transform the country’s position in the global meat industry while generating substantial economic benefits for Katsina State.
Press Released Signed By Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Katsina State
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