Katsina Governor Radda makes unscheduled visit to Songhai Integrated Farm, reaffirms commitment to youth empowerment

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By Nuruddeen Mohammed Yahaya, Katsina

Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, paid an unscheduled visit to the Songhai Integrated Farm and Vocational Training Centre in Makera, Dutsinma.

The Governor made the unscheduled stop while returning from a condolence visit to Bakori.

Speaking directly to the students, Governor Radda said he was happy to see them learning hands-on skills in agriculture. He explained that the initiative was one of the promises made during his campaign—to create three functional vocational centres across the state that would empower young people with practical training in farming and agribusiness.

“This is just the beginning. You are now in your fourth month of a six-month programme, and when you finish, we’ll provide you with startup capital so you can launch your own agribusiness ventures,” the Governor said.

He also responded to the students’ request for tools and equipment, pledging to supply tractors, power tillers, and other farming implements to support them during their studies.

“It’s not just about farming—you’ll also learn how to write a good business plan. That way, you’ll know how to run and sustain what you build,” he added.

Governor Radda further said, He will interact with the Commissioner for Agriculture to begin the process of recruiting the next batch of trainees, reaffirming that the programme would continue.

He urged the students to remain focused, advising them to create a WhatsApp group for networking and mutual support beyond graduation.

He also praised the presence of female participants in the programme, saying it reflects courage and determination.

At the end of the visit, the Governor expressed hope that the initiative would help tackle unemployment and insecurity, noting that agriculture remains a major solution for both economic and social challenges in the state.

Earlier, in his welcome remarks, the Coordinator of the centre, Mallam Usman Suleiman, expressed surprise at the visit, describing it as a strong sign of the Governor’s commitment to agriculture and youth development. He briefed the Governor on the achievements and challenges so far and assured him that the students would make the state proud.