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The Jigawa State Government has flagged off the departure of 30 newly recruited master technicians to China for specialised training in agricultural mechanisation in a bid to revolutionise its agricultural sector.
This move is part of the state’s broader strategy to modernise agriculture and enhance productivity through advanced technology and capacity building.
PUNCH Online reports that the 30 technicians travelling to China will undergo six to eight weeks of training in agricultural equipment maintenance and operation.
These individuals, who are graduates with engineering and agricultural engineering backgrounds, are expected to return as master technicians equipped to manage the service centres and maintain the machinery.
Governor Umar Namadi, who witnessed the technicians’ departure on Friday at the Council’s Chamber, Government House, Dutse, described the initiative as a landmark moment in the state’s agricultural history, reiterating that “agriculture remains the basis of Jigawa State’s economy.:
Namadi stressed the government’s commitment to mechanising farming practices to boost proficiency and reduce manual labour among teaming farmers across the state.
To facilitate this transformation, according to Namadi, “the state government has established 60 service centres across the state, along with the appointment of a managing director for the Jigawa State Farm Mechanisation Programme.”
“The company will oversee the deployment of farm machinery and ensure its maintenance and operational sustainability,” he added.
He said, “By modernising agriculture, we are securing the future of Jigawa State and creating opportunities for generations to come.”
He explained that “Jigawa State Government has also made substantial progress in procuring essential farm implements, including 300 tractors, 60 combine harvesters, disc ploughs, sprayers, and other equipment.”
Accordingly, Namadi revealed that 65% of the payment for the machinery has been made, with the remaining 35% expected to be completed by the end of next month, adding that deliveries of the equipment are anticipated to begin by late December 2024 or early January 2025.
However, the governor emphasized that these machines will be made accessible to farmers across the state through the service centres, where farmers can hire tractors and other equipment at heavily subsidized rates.
Earlier, the state Commissioner for Agriculture, Muttaka Namadi, stated that the training is part of a comprehensive capacity-building initiative under the Jigawa Agricultural Mechanisation Support System.
He stated that, in total, the programme will train 2,726 individuals in various specializations, including tractor operation, fleet management, and service centre management.
“The initiative is expected to create approximately 8,000 indirect jobs while servicing a minimum of 180,000 hectares annually,” he highlighted.
Muttaka, who noted that the training of the 30 technicians in China is a significant step towards achieving this goal, also expressed optimism that the initiative would have a positive impact on the state’s economy and the lives of its citizens.
Speaking with reporters, one of the beneficiaries, Abubakar Muhammad, said, “I’m one of the 30 technicians selected for the advanced training in agricultural mechanization in China. I’m grateful to the Jigawa State Government for this opportunity, which I believe will equip me with the necessary skills to contribute to the state’s agricultural development.”
“I am eager to learn and return to Jigawa State to share my knowledge with others, added Abubakar
Another beneficiary, Sadiq Abdullahi, said, “This training is a dream come true. I have always been passionate about agriculture and machinery, and this opportunity will enable me to combine both interests. I am confident that the training will enhance my skills and knowledge, allowing me to make a meaningful contribution to Jigawa State’s agricultural sector. I appreciate the state government’s investment in our future.”
Additionally, another 32-year-old among the beneficiaries, Yusuf Surajo, said, “I am thrilled to be part of this pioneering group of technicians undergoing training in China. I believe that this training will not only benefit me but also the entire state, as we will be equipped to provide efficient and effective services to farmers. I am grateful to the governor for his vision and commitment to transforming Jigawa State’s agricultural sector.”
