Vice President Kashim Shettima on Tuesday commissioned the Katsina Sustainable Platform for Agriculture (KASPA) and the newly completed ₦4.8 billion, 3.3-kilometre dual carriageway from Central Mosque Roundabout to WTC Roundabout in Katsina metropolis.
Hikaya Newspaper reports that H’he described both as symbols of innovation, discipline, and visionary leadership under Governor Dikko Umaru Radda. “The projects reflect the administration’s focus on measurable progress, modern governance, and people-centered development.”
In his remarks, Shettima paid tribute to Nigerian farmers for their resilience and hard work, stressing that what they need is not sympathy but systems that enable productivity. He explained that KASPA a digital agricultural platform provides structure, data, and access to markets that empower farmers to thrive in a rapidly evolving economy.
“Food security remains the foundation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic transformation agenda,” he said, noting that the federal and state governments are working hand-in-hand to ensure Nigeria grows what it eats and processes what it grows.
The Vice President said KASPA fits perfectly into this national vision as a local innovation driving a federal goal. He described it as a move from “reactive governance to proactive intelligence,” allowing farmers to access inputs, adopt best practices, and connect directly to markets. Commending the Katsina State Government for “believing in the intelligence of its people and creating solutions instead of waiting for Abuja,” he reaffirmed the Federal Government’s readiness to support Katsina’s drive in policy, infrastructure, and innovation.
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, in his remarks, welcomed the Vice President and dignitaries to the commissioning, explaining that the dual carriageway equipped with solar-powered streetlights, drainage systems, and safety features is part of the Katsina Urban Renewal Programme aimed at modernizing major cities.
He said the urban renewal project covers 10 major roads totaling 55 kilometres at a cost of ₦74 billion, with similar projects ongoing in Funtua, Daura, and all 34 local governments. He added that the 24km Eastern Bypass commissioned earlier by President Tinubu reflects the strong collaboration between both tiers of government.
The Governor also launched the KASPA platform, describing it as a digital innovation connecting farmers, investors, and government in a transparent agricultural ecosystem. He disclosed that his administration has distributed over 20,000 metric tonnes of fertilizer, procured 400 tractors, and aims to register one million farmers on the platform for e-extension services.
The ceremony, attended by top officials, traditional rulers, and citizens, was lauded as a milestone in Katsina’s transformation blending technology, infrastructure, and inclusive growth for sustainable development.