Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working closely with global development partners to drive agricultural growth and boost the state’s economy.
The governor made this known while hosting a delegation from the European Union (EU) at the Government House in Kano, noting that the visit comes at a critical time for the state’s agricultural reform agenda.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr. Sulaiman Wali Sani, Yusuf emphasized that agriculture remains central to his administration’s development strategy. He highlighted the establishment of the Ministry of Livestock Development as a deliberate step to unlock new opportunities in the sector.
“Our administration sees agriculture not only as a means of food production, but as a pathway to jobs, wealth creation, and sustainable development,” he said.
The government, he added, is already implementing modern agricultural initiatives, including artificial insemination, mechanized farming, and structured support across the value chain.
“We are determined to move from traditional practices to modern, technology-driven systems that will increase productivity and improve incomes for our farmers,” the governor said.
Yusuf stressed that livestock development holds strong potential for job creation, especially for young people and women, while also serving as a tool for poverty reduction.
He also expressed optimism about the partnership with the EU, noting that it would strengthen innovation, technical capacity, and market access.
“We believe this partnership will open new opportunities for our people, especially young entrepreneurs and women involved in agribusiness,” he stressed.
Speaking on behalf of the EU, Hugh Briggs reaffirmed the union’s interest in Kano due to its strategic role in Nigeria’s agricultural ecosystem.
“Kano occupies a strategic place in Nigeria’s agricultural economy, and we are pleased to deepen our cooperation with the state government,” Briggs said.
He noted that EU interventions are focused on climate-smart agriculture, food security, and improving farmers’ access to markets.
“Our intervention is designed to help farmers adapt to climate challenges, improve yields, and connect better with markets,” he added.
Also speaking, Dr. Andrea Ruedigar revealed that Germany is currently implementing several development projects across Nigeria, with a number already active in Kano.
“Our programmes are focused on practical solutions that will improve production, reduce post-harvest losses, and encourage private sector investment,” she said.
Kano’s Commissioner for Livestock Development, Dr. Aliyu Isah Aliyu, underscored the importance of partnerships, stating:
“No government can achieve lasting agricultural transformation alone. Collaboration with credible partners remains essential to achieving our goals.”
