Governor Uba Sani has reaffirmed his administration's commitment to supporting grape farmers in Kaduna State through the provision of seedlings, mechanization, training, and other essential agricultural services aimed at improving their yield per hectare. The governor made this promise during a meeting with members of the Grapes Producers, Processors, and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NGRAPPMAN), led by its National President, Alhaji Abdullahi Dalhatu, over the weekend.
During the discussion, Governor Sani emphasized that Kudan Local Government will not only remain the country's leading grape-farming hub but that his administration will also work to strengthen businesses along the grape value chain. Recognizing the potential of the sector, he assured farmers that the state government will continue to provide an enabling environment to ensure that grape farming thrives and contributes to the local economy.
Kudan Local Government Area is responsible for approximately 85% of Nigeria's total grape production, largely due to its favorable climatic and soil conditions. This makes the region a crucial part of the country's agricultural landscape, with the potential to significantly expand its influence in the industry.
Governor Sani expressed appreciation to the association for its role in promoting Kaduna as a major grape-producing state. He highlighted that with sustained government support, the state is on track to further increase its grape production, potentially positioning Nigeria among the top 10 grape-producing countries in Africa. His administration, he assured, remains committed to providing the necessary infrastructure and policies to boost the sector's growth.
Beyond increasing production, the governor stressed that grape farming has the potential to generate employment and stimulate economic activity in Kaduna. By fostering the growth of businesses related to grape cultivation, processing, and marketing, the government aims to create opportunities for farmers, entrepreneurs, and investors in the agricultural sector.
In response, Alhaji Abdullahi Dalhatu, President of NGRAPPMAN, commended Governor Sani for his administration's pro-agriculture policies. He acknowledged that these initiatives have contributed significantly to enhancing agricultural development, reducing poverty, and driving economic growth in Kaduna. Dalhatu expressed confidence that with continued government support, the grape farming industry will play a more prominent role in Nigeria's economy.
With Kaduna State's increasing focus on agricultural expansion, grape farming is set to become a vital part of the state's economic landscape. Governor Sani's commitment to supporting farmers and developing the value chain signals a promising future for the industry, with benefits extending beyond local farmers to the broader economy.
Source: Daily Trust