The Katsina State government has announced plans to provide seven hundred and twenty-two brand new motorcycles to newly trained extension workers in the state. This initiative aims to bolster agricultural extension services and enhance service delivery to farmers across the state.
State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, confirmed this development during the official launch of a two-day capacity-building training programme for 722 co-opted local government staff into the state Agriculture Extension Service. The event took place at the Local Government Service Commission Auditorium.
Governor Radda emphasized that the training programme was designed to address the shortage of extension workers in the state. He pledged to sustain the training initiative until the workers are adequately equipped with the necessary knowledge, research, and innovations to support farmers effectively.
The training programme covers various aspects of agricultural best practices, including the use of quality seeds, proper fertilizer application, and land management techniques to boost production. Governor Radda expressed concern over the limited number of extension workers upon assuming office, noting that most were nearing retirement age.
To address this challenge, Governor Radda’s administration engaged specialists in agricultural extension services to organize the training programme, aiming to revitalize the agricultural sector in the state. He highlighted the government’s commitment to implementing innovative strategies to improve agricultural activities.
Governor Radda urged participants to apply the skills and knowledge gained from the training to support farmers in their communities effectively.
Earlier, the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Professor Ahmed Mohammed Bakori, emphasized that the training programme would empower farmers with solutions to challenges such as poor seed selection, improper fertilizer application, soil fertility decline, pest and disease management, and marketing strategies.
Speaking on behalf of the consultants, Agriculture Extension Specialist Professor Ali Abdullahi reaffirmed their dedication to exceeding expectations and pledged to maintain close collaboration with extension workers for professional development and optimal service delivery.
The Katsina State government remains committed to enhancing agricultural productivity and ensuring food security by equipping extension workers with the necessary tools and knowledge to support farmers effectively.
