Daniel Adaji
The National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) and the Katsina State Government have agreed to deepen collaboration on agricultural reforms in a move aimed at boosting food security and rural development.
Welcoming Governor Dikko Radda to the agency’s headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, NADF Executive Secretary, Mr. Muhammed Ibrahim, described the visit as a milestone in strengthening intergovernmental partnerships.
“Your Excellency, we are honoured to host you today. This agency considers your visit a privilege and a sign of meaningful collaboration. Based on your commitment to agricultural development, we are confident this partnership will be impactful,” he said.
Ibrahim emphasised NADF’s mandate to work closely with subnational governments, saying, “Our goal is to promote agricultural development and enhance food security. Katsina’s efforts in this area present a strong opportunity for joint action.”
Governor Radda said the visit served two purposes—to congratulate the newly appointed Executive Secretary and to seek collaboration on Katsina’s agricultural transformation agenda.
He noted that over 90 per cent of Katsina’s population is engaged in agriculture or related sectors.
“Any meaningful support to our people must revolve around agriculture. That is why we are here today—to build a strong partnership with NADF,” he said.
Radda detailed his administration’s investments, including N21bn spent on 400,000 bags of fertilizer distributed directly to farmers.
The state has also established an irrigation authority, distributed solar-powered irrigation pumps, and is about to launch mechanization centers across all 34 local government areas.
He added that Katsina had procured over 400 tractors, 1,000 planters, and 4,000 power tillers to reduce the impact of insecurity on traditional farming methods. Another 400,000 metric tons of fertilizer will be distributed in May, just ahead of the rainy season.
One key area of collaboration is the Sabke Dam project, part of the federal government’s Renewed Hope Infrastructure Fund under the Emergency, Water and Sanitation Response Strategy (EWRS). The initiative aims to upgrade irrigation systems and unlock over 1,200 hectares of farmland.
“This dam has remained underutilised for more than two decades. With federal support and NADF’s involvement, we can now turn it into a productive asset, creating jobs and increasing food output,” he said.
Radda called on NADF staff to support Ibrahim’s leadership, stressing that their cooperation would be vital to the agency’s success.
“Katsina State stands ready for any partnership or collaboration with NADF. Together, we can help build a stronger, more food-secure nation,” he added.