News in brief:
– Katsina State Governor Radda partners with OCP Africa to enhance fertiliser production and modernise agriculture.
– The agreement includes soil-specific fertiliser blends, farmer training, and expanded agricultural support services.
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with OCP Africa to boost fertiliser production and agricultural development. The agreement was formalised after the governor toured OCP Africa’s facilities in Jorf, Morocco, home to the world’s largest fertiliser production complex.
“We look forward to working closely with OCP Africa through its Nigerian subsidiary to empower our farmers with better seeds, fertilisers, and farming practices to improve yield and reduce wastage,” Governor Radda stated during the signing ceremony.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to leveraging agriculture for socio-economic growth and food security in Katsina State.
Expanding agricultural investments in Katsina
Governor Radda highlighted the state’s ongoing investments in agricultural mechanisation and related facilities to enhance productivity. He also expressed interest in exploring Katsina’s abundant lime deposits, a crucial component in fertiliser production, in collaboration with OCP Africa.
Mohamed Hettiti, acting CEO of OCP Africa, represented by Kessab Abdeljalil, reiterated the company’s dedication to ensuring food security in Nigeria and Africa. Oluwatoba Asana, OCP Africa’s Country Manager, emphasised the long-standing relationship between the company and Katsina State, dating back to 2018. He assured the governor of the company’s continued support in improving farmers’ productivity by deploying research-driven crop and soil-specific NPK fertiliser blends.
The new agreement will focus on:
- Developing soil-specific fertiliser blends suited to Katsina’s unique soil conditions.
- Establishing OCP Farm and Fortune Hubs in state-owned warehouses to provide quality farming inputs and modern agricultural knowledge.
- Conducting comprehensive soil mapping through the OCP School Lab Initiative.
- Offering specialised training for Katsina State extension officers to enhance support for local farmers.
This partnership marks a significant step in advancing agriculture in Katsina State and strengthening Nigeria’s quest for food security and self-sufficiency.
