Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to reviving cotton production and supporting private sector investment in agriculture. This was revealed when he received the Director General of the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA), Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, at the Government House in Katsina.
The visit marked the beginning of a strategic collaboration between the Katsina State Government, the NBRDA, and Dar Al-Halal Animal Farm. The partnership aims to establish a modern meat hub and revitalise the cotton sector—both of which are seen as crucial to boosting Nigeria’s economy and creating jobs.
Speaking during the visit, Governor Radda said, “Our administration is committed to reviving cotton production in Katsina State by providing improved seeds and creating a conducive environment for our farmers.” He acknowledged that poor-quality seeds had discouraged many farmers from cultivating cotton, leading to a decline in yields and income.
The Governor added that the state is investing heavily in agriculture through the supply of fertilisers and farming inputs, positioning the sector as the most reliable path to economic development. “Agriculture remains the most effective means of improving the livelihoods of the people in Katsina State,” he said.
Prof. Mustapha, who was accompanied by the Chairman of Dar Al-Halal Animal Farm, Alhaji Muhammadu Dikko Ladan, outlined the agency’s plan to use biotechnology to address national challenges such as food insecurity and poverty. “We are looking to collaborate closely with Katsina State to drive job creation and advance food and nutrition security,” he stated.
Alhaji Ladan revealed that the proposed meat hub would make Nigeria a serious contender in the international beef export market. He noted, “The initiative promises to enhance food and nutrition security, significantly increase livestock output, and create substantial employment opportunities for local farmers and communities across the state.”
Governor Radda praised the private sector-led approach, saying, “These are the things I like seeing happening – private initiative taking the bull by the horn. Ours is to provide an enabling environment for things like this to thrive.”
The Governor assured the investors of his full support, stressing his administration’s dedication to building a business-friendly atmosphere that will attract sustainable investment. He directed the state’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development to begin working closely with the NBRDA to develop a joint implementation plan.
Prof. Mustapha applauded the governor for his accomplishments since assuming office, describing the progress in Katsina as impressive.
This collaboration is expected to bring about major improvements in cotton production while establishing the state-of-the-art meat hub, which experts believe could elevate Nigeria’s position in the global meat trade. The projects are also poised to generate high-value returns for investors, improve food production, and provide thousands of new jobs in Katsina and beyond.
In other news, NBRDA, Dar Al-Halal launch Meat Hub Project in Katsina.