The Jigawa State government in Nigeria’s Northeast has completed arrangements to kickstart dry season farming in Maigatari, and other Sahel areas of the state as part of the effort to ensure food security in the state.
Gov. Umar Namadi who spoke on the heels of his recent business trip to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia said that foreign partners have already set for the final push.
In a press statement signed by the Special Assistant Media Affairs to the governor, Hajiya Zainab Rabo Ringim made available to newsmen explained that the essence was to boost self-sufficiency in food production.
The SSA explained that arrangements were in top gear to utilize mini dams in Maigatari and the environs to introduce round-the-year farming.
She said “Some of the proposals bordered on the need to introduce irrigation services where there is none by providing mini dams sporadically, boreholes to boost dry season farming “
Hajiya Rabo further stated that there are efforts to “upgrade and expand our local markets especially the Maigatari market which harbors one of the largest cattle and animal businesses in the West African region.”
The SSA media Affairs revealed that “details of the meeting however entail request for grants and other non-interest loan facilities.”
On the Maigatari Export Free Zone, Malam Namadi was quoted to have revealed a plan to reposition it to realize its potential.
He vowed to ensure standard in packaging local agricultural products to boost the value chain, and market guarantee for dealers, and exporters.
“The Maigatari free trade zone, a key economic asset to Jigawa State holding huge economic opportunities is located within the fringes of Nigeria/Niger borders
He said the Free Zone will expand windows to increase its foreign earnings and support its ambitious economic development as captured on the twelve-point agenda of Malam Unar Namadi.
Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano.
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