The Group President/CE, Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, on Thursday, July 5,
2018, signed an agreement with Katsina State Governor for reviving and
upgrading the moribund Songhai project in Dutsinma town, under a 10-year
lease agreement.
The initiative which will see an initial investment of half a billion
Naira by Dangote Group will ensure the installation of the
state-of-the-art tomato research and development (R&D) facility equipped
with drip irrigation and fertigation systems and ultimately, the
cultivation of 10,000 hectares of farmland and establishment of tomato
processing plant within the Zobe dam region.
Speaking at the signing and handing over ceremony of the Songhai project,
renowned Africa Industrialist, Alhaji Aliko Dangote expressed his
commitment towards supporting Katsina State Government in reviving the
Songhai project, putting its arable land to good use while creating
employment for farmers in the region.
He said “Today is one of my happiest days to have finally concluded and
signed this agreement so we can take action. I assure you, we will not
only cultivate and process tomatoes, we will also help Katsina effectively
utilize its vast arable land.
“With your support in providing an enabling environment, we will move to
the site quickly to begin cultivation and more importantly integrate
farmers in our out-grower scheme to make this project a reality. Apart
from tomatoes, we will farm other crops and do our best to make this
project succeed.”
Reacting to the development, Katsina State Governor, Aminu Masari who
described Katsina State as investor-friendly lauded the initiative as a
significant milestone and a great turning point in the economic
transformation of Katsina State and its people. He further described the
project as one that will not only serve Katsina State but West Africa
region and beyond.
The Governor promised to provide Dangote with the necessary support to
ensure the success of the project which he said will further open up local
economy in the state.
According to Project lead, Robert Coleman, Dangote will leverage
technology and skilled manpower, to farm tomato in and out of season. The
research and development (R & D) facility will provide a training hub for
farmers, agronomist, and students within the region, generating both
skilled and unskilled employment opportunities for up to 1,000 people.