By Rukayya Mahuta
The Katsina State Coordinating Office of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable agriculture by participating in the official flag-off of the Climate-Smart Agri-Business Empowerment Scheme.
The launch aimed to boost productivity and resilience among smallholder farmers, and to deliver improved seed varieties, modern agricultural tools, enhanced farming techniques, and better market access, ultimately strengthening food security, and rural livelihoods across the state.
The event, held in collaboration with the African Union Development Agency-New Partnership for Africa’s Development (AUDA-NEPAD), marks a significant step toward building climate resilience and transforming agriculture in Katsina. The initiative is jointly funded by AUDA-NEPAD with N63.75 million and the Katsina State Government with N36.25 million.
RMRDC team led by the State Coordinator, Mr. Abubakar Yusha’u, highlighted the Council’s strategic role in promoting climate-resilient agriculture through the use of locally sourced agro-mineral raw materials such as dolomite and phosphate for fertilizer production. The team also offered technical expertise to integrate sustainable materials into the agricultural value chain, with a focus on improving soil health and increasing farm yields.
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Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umar Radda, in his address, hailed the program as a major stride in transitioning smallholder farmers from subsistence to commercial farming. He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to inclusive agricultural growth.
The National Coordinator of AUDA-NEPAD Nigeria, Hon. Salisu Jabiru, emphasized the scheme’s alignment with national and continental agricultural priorities. Meanwhile, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on SDGs, Maryam Sodangi, noted the long-term goal of embedding sustainable practices within local farming communities.
The flag-off ceremony drew a wide range of stakeholders, including state legislators, commissioners, federal agency representatives, and hundreds of farmers from all 34 local government areas of Katsina State.
