Kano State is seeking to strengthen its agricultural sector through global partnerships following its participation in the Paris International Agricultural Show in Paris, where state officials explored new technologies and collaborations aimed at improving farming productivity and agribusiness development.
The international exhibition, held at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles, gathered more than 2,000 companies from different parts of the world to present advancements in areas such as livestock production, crop protection, mechanised farming and agribusiness innovation.
After the event, the Kano State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Danjuma Mahmood, said the state’s delegation held several discussions with foreign organisations and agricultural technology firms on opportunities that could transform farming and improve the livelihoods of local farmers.
Mahmood explained that a major focus of the meetings was the adoption of climate-smart and drought-tolerant seed varieties designed to increase crop yields in the state. He pointed out that seed adulteration remains a major obstacle faced by farmers and said the government intends to establish demonstration farms where improved seed varieties can be tested and showcased.
He noted that adopting these improved seeds could significantly boost rice output in Kano, increasing the yield from the current average of about 40–60 bags per hectare to between 120 and 140 bags.
The commissioner also revealed that the delegation held talks with international research institutions about possible Memoranda of Understanding aimed at strengthening seed development, enhancing livestock productivity and improving the production of animal feed.
In addition, discussions were held with manufacturers of agricultural machinery on partnerships that could provide farmers with affordable and easy-to-maintain equipment such as mini tractors, threshers and solar-powered farming tools.
Mahmood added that such collaborations could also support the growth of local fabrication in Kano, enabling the state to manufacture modern agricultural equipment that could serve farmers across northern Nigeria and nearby West African markets.
He described the global agricultural show as an important forum for sharing knowledge and innovation, expressing optimism that the connections made at the event would help advance Kano State’s agricultural transformation efforts and improve farmers’ incomes and livelihoods.
