News in brief:
– Katsina State invests ₦5.7 billion in a goat-rearing scheme, distributing 40,000 goats to women across 361 wards.
– The initiative includes training, livestock health support, and a new goat farm to boost production and genetics.
Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, has launched a ₦5.7 billion goat-rearing scheme aimed at boosting livestock production and empowering rural farmers, especially women. The initiative unveiled in Daura Local Government Area on Monday, will see the distribution of 40,000 goats to women across the state’s 361 wards.
Governor Radda emphasised that the programme is a strategic step toward making Katsina a leading hub for livestock production in northern Nigeria.
“This moment marks not only a significant milestone in our agricultural journey but also a transformative step toward achieving our ambition of making Katsina State a powerhouse in livestock production,” he stated.
Training and support for beneficiaries
The initiative, implemented through the Ministry of Women Affairs and community-level committees, is designed to provide beneficiaries with the necessary resources, training, and support to successfully rear goats.
“We will implement training programmes for our people, equipping them with skills necessary to engage in effective breeding practices. This programme will cover essential aspects such as animal nutrition, health management, and sustainable farming techniques,” Radda added.
Each beneficiary will receive four goats—one male and three females—while large-scale farmers will be given 50 goats each. Beneficiaries are expected to repay in kind by returning an equal number of animals after a specified period.
New goat farm for genetic improvement
In addition to the distribution, the Katsina government plans to establish a goat farm in Rimi Local Government Area to enhance genetic improvement, milk production, and manure processing. The farm will also serve as a training centre for farmers.
“This year, the government is establishing a goat farm in the Katsina senatorial zone for genetic improvement, high milk production, and manure. This will also serve as a multiplier for goat production, breeding, and animal husbandry,” Radda explained.
Commitment to livestock development
Governor Radda commended President Bola Tinubu for creating the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, highlighting its importance in transforming Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
The Special Adviser on Livestock and Grazing Reserves, Yusuf Sulaiman, noted that the initiative aligns with the government’s goal of empowering women to drive economic progress. He also announced plans to establish three livestock centres where distributed animals will receive medical treatment and vaccinations.
The Emir of Daura, Faruk Faruk, praised Governor Radda’s leadership and commitment to economic growth.
“In less than two years, you have led Katsina out of hardship and placed it on the path of prosperity. This initiative to support women with livestock will leave a lasting impact,” the Emir said.
The goat-rearing scheme is expected to improve household incomes, enhance food security, and solidify Katsina’s position as a key player in Nigeria’s livestock sector.
