By Rabiu Sanusi
The Managing Director of the Kano Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (KNARDA), Dr. Farouk Kurawa, has lauded Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for providing purposeful leadership and implementing policies that continue to transform the agricultural sector and improve the welfare of the people of Kano State.
Dr. Kurawa stated that the governor’s commitment to development was evident even before assuming office, noting that a comprehensive blueprint was carefully designed to guide the administration’s programmes and activities.
According to him, the administration has remained faithful to its campaign promises, particularly in the area of agriculture, which remains the backbone of Kano State’s economy.
“We are highly delighted with the quality of leadership being provided by His Excellency, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf. The blueprint developed at the beginning of this administration has continued to guide government activities and has produced remarkable results in several sectors,” he said.
The KNARDA boss explained that since the inception of the present administration, the agency has witnessed significant improvements aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and extension services throughout the state.
He disclosed that KNARDA successfully recruited 1,038 new agricultural extension workers to strengthen the agency’s capacity and improve support services to farmers across Kano’s 44 local government areas.
According to Dr. Kurawa, the government also provided motorcycles to facilitate the movement of extension personnel, enabling them to effectively reach farmers in rural communities and offer technical guidance on modern farming practices.
He further revealed that KNARDA has established regular monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to assess agricultural activities from planting to harvesting stages.
“The objective is to ensure that farmers receive adequate support throughout the farming season and to identify challenges that may affect productivity.
These assessments help us improve our programmes and ensure better outcomes for farmers,” he explained.
Dr. Kurawa emphasized that the agency has intensified efforts toward the production and distribution of improved seed varieties to boost crop yields and enhance food security across the state.
He noted that KNARDA has moved into rural communities to identify dedicated and hardworking farmers who are then trained in modern seed production techniques.
According to him, the initiative is designed to ensure the availability of high-quality seeds while empowering local farmers to become seed producers capable of supporting agricultural development within their communities.
“Today, we have many farmers who specialize in seed production. This initiative is helping to improve agricultural productivity, strengthen the state’s economy and ensure that quality seeds are readily available to farmers who need them,” he stated.
The KNARDA Managing Director also stressed the need for sustained government intervention to support agricultural agencies and programmes, particularly during periods when development partners are unable to provide projects or financial assistance.
He appealed to the Kano State Government to assist in the rehabilitation and upgrading of KNARDA facilities to create a more conducive working environment for staff and improve operational efficiency.
Dr. Kurawa further advised farmers across the state to regard agriculture as a profitable business enterprise rather than merely a traditional occupation.
He said commercial agriculture has enormous potential for wealth creation, job generation, economic growth and self-reliance, urging farmers to embrace modern farming techniques and agribusiness opportunities.
“Agriculture should be treated like any other business. When farmers approach farming with the right mindset and modern practices, they can significantly improve their incomes and contribute meaningfully to economic development,” he added.
The KNARDA chief also commended the Kano State Government for establishing Agricultural Equipment Hiring Centres in Gaya, Danbatta and Kura Local Government Areas.
He described the centres as a major intervention aimed at improving access to mechanized farming services and modern agricultural equipment.
According to him, the facilities have provided farmers with affordable opportunities to expand their farming operations, reduce production costs and increase productivity.
He noted that the initiative would play a crucial role in accelerating agricultural modernization and ensuring sustainable food production in Kano State.
Dr. Kurawa reaffirmed KNARDA commitment to supporting Governor Yusuf’s agricultural transformation agenda and expressed optimism that ongoing reforms would further strengthen Kano’s position as a leading agricultural hub in Nigeria.
He urged all stakeholders, including farmers, community leaders, development partners and private investors to continue supporting government efforts toward achieving food security, economic prosperity and sustainable agricultural development throughout the state.
