Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with OCP Africa following a tour of their facilities in Jorf, Morocco, the world’s largest fertiliser production complex.
“We look forward to working closely with OCP Africa through its Nigerian subsidiary to empower our farmers with better seeds, fertilisers, and farming practices to improve yield and reduce wastage,” said Governor Radda during the signing ceremony.
He also emphasised his administration’s commitment to boosting agriculture to drive socio-economic development and food security in the State.
Governor Radda further noted the “massive investments the State is making towards mechanisation and ancillary facilities in the agricultural sector.”
The governor expressed interest in opening discussions with OCP Africa to explore harnessing the large deposits of lime in Katsina State, which is a significant component of fertiliser production.
Earlier, during the signing of MoU, Mohamed Hettiti, acing CEO of OCP Africa, represented by Kessab Abdeljalil, reiterated “the commitment of OCP Africa towards achieving food security and food sovereignty for Nigeria and Africa.”
Oluwatoba Asana, Country Manager of OCP Africa, recalled the relationship between Katsina State and OCP Africa, dating back to 2018. He assured the governor of “the company’s continued support towards improving farmers’ productivity in the State with the joint implementation of tested and proven initiatives of OCP Africa, including the deployment of crop and soil-specific NPK blends developed through research.”
The new partnership will focus on four key areas including, development of soil-specific fertilizer blends tailored to Katsina State’s unique conditions, establishment of OCP Farm and Fortune Hubs in State-owned warehouses to provide quality inputs and modern farming information.
Others are comprehensive soil mapping through the OCP School Lab Initiative and specialised training for Katsina State extension officers to enhance their support for local farmers.
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