By Peter Omopo
Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has commissioned a recycling plant in Hadejia and empowered 708 youths as part of efforts to boost mechanised farming and strengthen food production in the state.
Speaking at the event in Hadejia, the governor disclosed that his administration has established over 60 farm mechanisation centres and procured more than 300 tractors to make agriculture more attractive and profitable, particularly for young people.
Governor Namadi said the state is already taking the lead in agricultural mechanisation nationwide, with the acquisition of over 300 tractors and 60 combine harvesters, alongside the creation of mechanisation hubs across various local government areas.
According to him, the initiative is aimed at bringing more land into cultivation, increasing food production, creating jobs and enhancing food security in alignment with national development priorities.
“We will continue to introduce policies and programmes that will turn farming into a profitable business, especially for our teeming youth population,” the governor said.
The commissioning of the recycling plant and the youth empowerment programme formed part of the state government’s broader strategy to diversify the economy, reduce unemployment and promote sustainable development.
Governor Namadi was responding to a call by the Emir of Hadejia, Adamu Abubakar Maje, who urged the state government to intensify support for farmers and expand agricultural investment.
In his remarks, the monarch commended the governor for ongoing infrastructural projects across the state, particularly improvements in road networks and housing development. He, however, stressed the need to sustain agricultural support to ensure higher productivity and economic growth.
The Emir also called for collective action against drug abuse, urging communities to expose drug dealers and support efforts to safeguard young people from substance abuse.
With the establishment of mechanisation centres, procurement of farm equipment and fresh youth empowerment initiatives, the Jigawa State Government says it is positioning agriculture as a key driver of economic growth, employment and food security, in line with Nigeria’s broader push for sustainable agricultural development.
