The Government of Katsina State, Northwest Nigeria will receive a reward of $4 millin from the World Bank under Prior Results Programme for Agricultural Reform (PPARs), following significant strides in enhancing ease of doing business and promoting sustainable land use practices.
This was announced by the Director General of the Katsina State Investment and Promotion Agency (KIPA), Ibrahim Tukur Jimkashi during the inauguration of two committees tasked with deepening these efforts.
“This framework addresses land rights, compensation mechanisms, and related policies. While the state government has made notable progress, these committees will formalise strategies to enhance future frameworks,” Jimkashi explained.
He emphasised that the inauguration marks a step towards implementing policies that will benefit Katsina citizens and position the state for further opportunities.
Jimkashi revealed that Katsina is among four Nigerian states to qualify for the $4 million reward. He further expressed optimism about securing an additional $30.5 million, equating to over N20 billion, by fulfilling requirements for the 2023 activities.
“We have worked tirelessly, and I am confident that we will achieve this goal. Today’s activities are integral to meeting those requirements and bringing more development to Katsina,” he stated.
Deputy Governor Faruq Lawal Jobe, who inaugurated the committees, highlighted their critical roles in advancing responsible agricultural investment.
Chairing the Steering Committee, Jobe stated its terms of reference, which include promoting transparency in agribusiness investments, encouraging inclusive production models, safeguarding tenure rights holders against dispossession, monitoring the impacts of agribusiness investments, including compensation standards, to ensure environmental sustainability, promoting gender equality and empowering women and youth and to review land allocation policies.
“These measures aim to ensure that agricultural investments align with international best practices while benefiting all stakeholders,” Jobe noted.
Katsina State’s proactive approach reflects its commitment to sustainable development, enhanced investment climate, and inclusivity in agricultural practices, ensuring progress for both its citizens and the economy
