The Katsina State Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (KTARDA) has commenced the distribution of improved foundation seeds to 722 agricultural extension agents to promote modern farming practices across the 34 local government areas of the state.
Hikaya Newspaper reports that the distribution exercise was officially launched on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at the KTARDA headquarters in Katsina. Speaking at the event, the Managing Director of the Authority, Alhaji Abubakar Dabo, commended Governor Dikko Umaru Radda for giving agriculture a top priority in his administration.
He described the governor as both a farmer and an agricultural expert, noting that this has inspired the government to invest heavily in the provision of improved seeds, timely fertilizer distribution before the rainy season, tractors, draft animals, and other farming support programmes aimed at increasing crop production and strengthening the state’s economy.
Alhaji Dabo further stated that the government provides monthly allowances to extension agents to enable them to educate farmers on modern agricultural techniques. He added that the agents would be closely monitored to ensure they properly utilize the seeds distributed to them and effectively transfer knowledge to farmers. According to him, the programme is designed to improve agricultural productivity and enhance the livelihoods of farming communities. He urged the beneficiaries to carry out their responsibilities with dedication, integrity, and commitment.
Speaking at the event, KTARDA Director Abdullahi Ibrahim said the programme was organized to bring together outstanding extension agents from across the state and provide them with seeds suitable for the ecological conditions of their respective areas. He explained that the state was divided into three agricultural zones to facilitate efficient seed distribution. Under the arrangement, the Katsina and Daura zones will receive groundnut and millet seeds, while the Funtua zone will receive soybean and maize seeds. He added that the initiative would also help identify farming challenges and promote the widespread adoption of improved seed varieties and modern farming practices across the state.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Aliyu Mani expressed appreciation to the Katsina State Government and KTARDA for the support. He assured the government that the extension agents would make proper use of the seeds by establishing demonstration farms and transferring improved farming knowledge to local farmers to boost crop yields and food production.
Agricultural experts described the programme as an important step toward strengthening agricultural extension services and encouraging the use of improved seed varieties. They noted that if effectively implemented, the initiative would enhance modern farming, increase food production, create employment opportunities, and contribute to food security in Katsina State.
KTARDA reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring the implementation of the programme across all 34 local government areas in collaboration with extension agents and other stakeholders, with the aim of ensuring that farmers fully benefit from improved seeds and modern agricultural practices capable of transforming agricultural production in Katsina State.