By Usman Usman Garba
The Federal Government of Nigeria has commended the Kano State Government for providing a conducive and enabling environment for prospective investors, pledging to intensify efforts toward opening more opportunities for both local and international investors.
The Vice President, Alhaji Kashim Shettima, made the commendation at the official opening ceremony of a major agro-processing plant, AFCOTT Grains, in Kano.
This was contained in a press release issued by Mustapha Muhammad, Chief Press Secretary to the Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf.
Represented by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, the Vice President noted that the company, with the capacity to process 40,000 tonnes of sesame and 20,000 tonnes of other grains, is not only a food processing hub but will also strengthen export capacity, enhance value chain addition, facilitate technology transfer, increase farmers’ income, and create employment opportunities, among other benefits.
He further commended AFCOTT Grains under the Kewalram Chanrai Group for its significant investment in the agricultural sector.
Earlier, the Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, stated that Kano has remained a model in providing an enabling environment for investment and is consistently open to business opportunities.
Represented by the Chief of Staff, Dr. Suleiman Wali Sani (mni), the Governor said Kano remains a rewarding investment destination with vast opportunities in agriculture and other sectors.
He disclosed that Kano has about 1.8 million hectares of arable land, but only 40 per cent is currently being utilized, adding that the government is aggressively pursuing agricultural development through mechanized farming, expansion of irrigation facilities, and improved extension services.
Governor Yusuf also highlighted the employment of over 1,000 extension workers, procurement of mechanized implements, and construction of dams as part of efforts to boost agricultural productivity in the state.
He emphasized that Kano serves as a hub connecting producers, merchants, and consumers, thereby positioning itself as a focal point where businesses thrive and link to markets across Central African nations.
