The Government of Katsina State has officially secured 100 hectares of land and paid over N274 million in compensation to pave the way for the establishment of the Federal College of Agriculture in Gidan Na-Banje, Kafur Local Government, a significant step toward strengthening agricultural education and rural development,
The Commissioner for Lands and Physical Planning, Dr. Faisal Umar Kaita, made this known during the formal presentation of compensation cheques to 241 landowners affected by the land takeover yesterday.
He disclosed that a total sum of N274,353,217.39 was disbursed—an exercise that reflects Governor Dikko Umaru Radda policy of ensuring full compensation is paid before any government project begins.
Dr. Kaita further revealed that the college was secured through the efforts of Alhaji Ibrahim Masari, a native of the area and the Political Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He explained that Alhaji Masari lobbied the Federal Government to bring the institution to Gidan Na-Banje as part of his commitment to the development of his community and Katsina State at large.
A statement signed and issued by Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, Chief Press Secretary to Gov Dikko Radda quoted the commissioner saying, “When completed, this college will support Governor Radda’s agricultural transformation agenda by serving as a hub for innovation, training, and research in modern farming techniques.”
Speaking at the event, the Dangaladiman Katsina and District Head of Kafur, Alhaji Abdulrahman Abdullahi Rabe, commended the government for paying compensation before construction begins.
“This act shows true leadership and concern for the welfare of our people,” he said. “It will go a long way in helping the affected farmers to rebuild their lives.”
Other community leaders and stakeholders present also praised Governor Radda’s proactive approach to governance, particularly his focus on agriculture as a catalyst for economic empowerment and rural development.
Several top government officials were present at the event, including representatives from the Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning, Vice Chairman and other local government officials, as well as community leaders—underscoring the significance of this achievement.
This initiative is part of the Radda administration’s broader commitment to building a prosperous and self-reliant Katsina through sustainable investments in agriculture and human capital development.
