By Aisha Ahmed
The Jigawa government says it has entered into partnership with the El-Meena Farms to accelerate Alfalfa production.
Alfalfa is a flowering plant that is high in protein usually processed and used as animal feeds for dairy generation.
Sagir Musa, Commissioner for Information, Youth and Sports, said this during a news conference at the end of the State Executive Council (SEC) on Friday in Dutse.
He said the council has approved the partnership which is being supported by Nigeria Export-Import Bank (NEXIM Bank), and the Saudi Export-Import Bank (Saudi EXIM Bank), respectively.
According to Musa, the strategic collaboration marks a major step in the Jigawa’s efforts to diversify the economy, boost agricultural productivity, enhance livestock and dairy sectors.
He said the partnership would enable the state to engage in large scale cultivation, processing and export of high quality Alfalfa.
The commissioner highlighted the project would generate over $400million in economic value.
“As anticipated, the project will create more than 100,000 direct jobs and 500,000 indirect jobs, in addition to strengthening rural livelihoods, empowering farmers, and attracting foreign investments.
“This is also expected to position Jigawa as a leading hub for Alfalfa production and export in sub-Saharan Africa,” he said.
Musa reiterated the state government’s commitment to ensure sustainable agricultural transformation via private sector-driven growth to enhance global competition. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Rabiu Sani-Ali
