Farmers, Others Benefit As Katsina Launches N1.7bn COVID Recovery Programme

Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State has officially launched the distribution of over N1.7 billion as part of the state’s COVID-19 recovery and economic stimulus programme, aimed at supporting vulnerable individuals across the region.

During the event held in Katsina, Governor Radda highlighted the comprehensive nature of the intervention, outlining its diverse beneficiaries and sectors of support. He emphasized that the initiative would benefit a significant number of farmers and less privileged households across the 34 Local Government Areas (LGAs) within the state.

The Governor elaborated on the breakdown of support, stating, “A total of 1,170 farmers across the LGAs will receive agricultural inputs worth more than N140 million, while another group of 12,250 individuals will benefit from agricultural assets totaling over N763 million, averaging N62,303 per farmer.”

Furthermore, he noted, “6,100 vulnerable households from 20 LGAs will receive grants, averaging N50,000 each, totaling N300 million.” Additionally, 43 communities comprising approximately 2,000 individuals each will receive an average grant of N12 million per community for micro projects.

The implementation of these support measures is facilitated through the Katsina State CARES programme, which operates under the Nigerian Cares (NG-CARES) programme, supported by the World Bank. Governor Radda stressed that the aim is to mitigate the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly its impact on livelihoods within the state.

Governor Radda reflected on the successes achieved by the programme despite initial challenges, highlighting its contributions to the livelihoods of numerous beneficiaries across various LGAs. He detailed the significant numbers of individuals supported through micro-projects, operational grants, agricultural inputs, and IT enhancement tools.

The National Coordinator of the Federal CARES Support Unit (FCSU), Abdulkareem Ogbaje, commended the tangible expression of care and solidarity shown by the state government through the disbursement of grants. Represented by Alhaji Shuaibu Aliyu, the State Coordinator, Ogbaje reiterated the commitment of the state government to uplift the livelihoods of its citizens.

Beneficiaries of the programme expressed gratitude for the support received, assuring the Governor of their dedication to using the assistance responsibly for their development and to combat poverty in the state and beyond.

NAN