Kebbi state government is introducing a special package for cassava farmers in the state that will include loan and agricultural input to boost massive production of the commodity.

Governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu made this known this Saturday after an assessment tour to Gangije Cassava pilot farms, Gwandu local government supported by the Central Bank of Nigeria to pave way for farmers to redouble cultivation.

He said three local government areas were selected for the pilot scheme, namely, Gwandu, Maiyama and Danko/Wasagu under which thousands of hectares would be used to grow cassava.

The governor was happy about the progress recorded in Maiyama and Gwandu, pledging that the programme would cover more areas next year for cultivation on commercial basis.

Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu urged the people in the area to cater properly for the farms as source of income and employment generation sited in Gangije, Gitta Birni, Mammawo, Madadi and surrounding villages.

Briefing the Governor, the village head of Gitta Birni Alhaji Muhammad Bello Dikko said since embarking on cultivation of cassava, youths in the villages have experienced an upliftment in their livelihood.

Alhaji Bello appealed to Kebbi state government to expand and sustain the programme by advancing loan package and seedlings to interested farmers in view of its viability.

The Chairman of Gwandu Local Government Alhaji Bello Atiku Kurya informed the governor that clearing and planting were ongoing towards increasing yields.

The governor paid a similar visit to Maiyama Cassava farm along Jega – Koko road.

In another development, Governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu this Friday trekked for about ten kilometres to reach Makera town, which was cut-off from Birnin Kebbi as a result of collapse of a bridge caused by flood.

He said the government would do its best to repairing the bridge as soon as possible.

The Governor sympathized with flood victims in the area urging commercial motorcyclists known as Kabu-Kabu, canoe operators, fishermen and traders to be cautions while plying the road to avoid tragedy.

Abubakar Mu’azu Dakingari
Chief Press Secretary
Government House
19th September, 2020.