From Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu
As part of measures towards revitalising the agricultural sector, the Yobe State Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources has awarded contracts worth N14 billion for the procurement of agricultural inputs and equipment.
In a press statement signed by Aishatu Tijjani the media officer of the ministry said that, the ceremony which took place at the ministry’s conference hall in Damaturu was headed by the Commissioner, Alhaji Ali Mustapha Goniri.
Goniri while speaking during the signing of the contract said, the items to be procured are 200 pieces of motor cycles for Zonal Extension Workers, renovation of the zonal offices at Potiskum, Gashu’a, Nguru, Geidam, Damaturu and Buni-Yadi among others.
The commissioner further stated that other inputs to be procured include assorted seedlings, Agro- chemicals, solar power pump machines with panels, multi- purpose thrasher, mini tiller machines and plough machines, hand push planters, fertilizers sprayer machine and small ruminant for women across all the 178 wards in the state respectively.
Hon. Ali Goniri stated that for effective actualisation of the set objectives, training and re-training of the extension officers are also part of the revitalization efforts for quality output.
He urged the contractors to reciprocate the present administration of Governor Mai Mala Buni determination towards supplying quality equipment, solid renovation among other specifications of the contract agreement.
Earlier in his remarks, the permanent secretary of the ministry Dr. Musa Abba Kollere highlighted that the measure was meant to strengthen the sector especially that last year the ministry was able to do more on livestock development adding that same efforts must be given to farming for food security.
On his part, Alhaji Ahmad Haruna while speaking on behalf of the contractors, thanked the governor for finding them worthy of the contracts, assuring to justify the confidence reposed in them by supplying quality products and in time for future patronage.