Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has officially launched the Climate-Smart Agribusiness Empowerment Scheme with a ₦100 million initiative aimed at revolutionising agricultural practices among smallholder farmers across the state. The launch ceremony took place in partnership with the African Union Development Agency – New Partnership for Africa’s Development (AUDA-NEPAD).
The wide-ranging programme received ₦63.75 million in funding from AUDA-NEPAD and ₦36.25 million from the Katsina State Government, demonstrating a firm commitment to climate-resilient farming and agricultural transformation. Governor Radda described the initiative as a key milestone in the state’s agricultural evolution, with a focus on transitioning farmers from subsistence methods to commercial-scale production.
“This is not just a routine empowerment exercise—it’s a purposeful investment in our people, our economy, and our future,” Governor Radda stated. “We want our farmers to embrace smarter, climate-adaptive methods that increase yields and income.”
He called on extension officers and relevant stakeholders to ensure that all inputs and training provided through the scheme are effectively utilised. “Monitoring and evaluation will be crucial. Our agents must follow up diligently to ensure these resources are not wasted,” he stressed.
Salisu Jabiru Tsauri, National Coordinator of AUDA-NEPAD in Nigeria, said the Katsina launch aligns national priorities with broader African Union agricultural goals. “This initiative is a gateway to achieving Agenda 2063. It’s not just another intervention—it’s a strategic platform,” he said.
Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda
He added that the scheme would provide beneficiaries with improved seeds, farming tools, technical training, and vital market linkages. Tsauri also praised the Katsina State Government’s broader agricultural investments, including dam construction and rehabilitation, procurement of over 20,000 metric tonnes of fertiliser for the 2025 season, and distribution of solar-powered irrigation pumps.
Also speaking at the event, the Governor’s Senior Special Assistant on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Maryam Sodangi, outlined the long-term vision of the initiative. “This programme is about building climate-resilient farming systems. It lays a sustainable foundation for food security in a changing environment,” she said.
The scheme is expected to directly impact food security and improve household incomes by equipping farmers with high-quality seeds, modern equipment, technical skills, and access to markets. The launch was attended by top state officials, including Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Nasir Yahaya Daura, members of the State Executive Council, extension workers, and hundreds of farmers from across Katsina State.
