Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding MoU with OCP Africa following a tour of their facilities in Jorf, Morocco, the world’s largest fertiliser production complex.
“We look forward to working closely with OCP Africa through its Nigerian subsidiary to empower our farmers with better seeds, fertilisers, and farming practices to improve yield and reduce wastage,” said Governor Radda during the signing ceremony.
The Governor also disclosed his administration’s commitment to boosting agriculture to drive socioeconomic development and food security in the state.
Governor Radda further emphasized the “massive investments the state is making towards mechanisation and ancillary facilities in the agricultural sector.”
The Governor expressed interest in opening discussions with OCP Africa to explore harnessing the large deposits of lime in Katsina State, which is a significant component of fertiliser production.
Earlier, during the signing of MoU, the Acting CEO of OCP Africa, Mr. Mohamed Hettiti, represented by Mr. Kessab Abdeljalil, reiterated “the commitment of OCP Africa towards achieving food security and food sovereignty for Nigeria and Africa.”
Engr. Oluwatoba Asana, Country Manager of OCP Africa, recalled the relationship between Katsina State and OCP Africa dating back to 2018.
He assured the Governor of “the company’s continued support towards improving farmers’ productivity in the state with the joint implementation of tested and proven initiatives of OCP Africa, including the deployment of crop and soil-specific NPK blends developed through research.”
The new partnership will focus on four key areas including, development of soil-specific fertilizer blends tailored to Katsina State’s unique conditions, establishment of OCP Farm and Fortune Hubs in state-owned warehouses to provide quality inputs and modern farming information.
Others are comprehensive soil mapping through the OCP School Lab Initiative and specialized training for Katsina State extension officers to enhance their support for local farmers
Mr. Kessab Abdeljalil also mentioned OCP Africa’s willingness to participate in the state’s fertiliser programmes in 2025.
The delegation included the Managing Director of OCP Africa Fertilisers Nigeria Ltd, Engr. Oluwatoba Asana.
Press Released Signed By Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Katsina State
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