Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has commissioned a cassava and gari processing centre in Batsari Local Government Area, saying the facility will boost agro-processing, create jobs and strengthen the state’s agricultural value chain.
At the inauguration ceremony, the governor renamed the facility to Dr Abba Sayyadi Ruma Cassava/Gari Processing Centre in honour of the late former Minister of Agriculture and Water Resources.
During the ceremony, the governor said the project reflects his administration’s commitment to agricultural transformation, rural development and economic diversification through value addition, adding that while Nigeria is the world’s largest producer of cassava, inadequate processing facilities have continued to limit farmers’ earnings and increase post-harvest losses.
According to him, the new centre will provide farmers with access to modern processing equipment, improve market opportunities, reduce waste and create employment, particularly for women and young people.
‘Agriculture is not merely a means of livelihood. It is an engine of economic growth, a pillar of food security and a driver of industrial development. Real prosperity lies in adding value to what we produce,’ the governor said.
Radda added that his administration is investing in improved seeds, mechanised farming, irrigation, extension services, climate-smart agriculture and rural infrastructure as part of efforts to build a complete agricultural value chain.
In his address, Director-General of the Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency (KASEDA), Dr Babangida Kabir Ruma, said the project would strengthen rural enterprises, empower women and youths, and enhance wealth creation across the state.