In its drive to revitalize the agricultural sector, the Yobe State Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources has awarded contracts worth N14 billion naira for the procurement of agricultural inputs and equipment.
During the procurement exercise at the ministry’s conference hall in Damaturu, the state’s Commissioner, Ali Mustapha Goniri said that the items to be procured are 200 units of motorcycles for Zonal extension workers, renovation of the zonal offices at Potiskum, Gashu’a, Nguru, Geidam, Damaturu, and Buni-Yadi among other areas.
He further revealed that other inputs to be procured include assorted seedlings, Agro- chemicals, solar power pump machines with panels, multi-purpose thrashers, mini tiller machines and plow machines, hand push planters, fertilizers sprayer machines, and small ruminant for women across all the 178 wards in the state.
While signing the contract, the commissioner said that for effective actualization of the set objectives, training and re-training of the extension officers are also part of the revitalization efforts for quality output.
He urged the contractors to reciprocate the present administration of Governor Mai Mala Buni’s determination to supply quality equipment, and solid renovation among other specifications of the contract agreement.
Earlier in his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry Dr. Musa Abba Kollere highlighted that the measure was meant to strengthen the sector especially since last year the ministry was able to do more on livestock development adding that the same efforts must be given to farming for food security.
Dr Musa Abba Kollere similarly expressed appreciation to the state Governor Buni for giving the maximum support to the Ministry on its developmental initiatives and programs among others.
Ahmad Haruna, the Director of Operations, Salmuftah Investment Nigeria Limited while speaking on behalf of the contractors, thanked the Governor for finding them worthy of the contracts assuring them to justify the confidence reposed in them by supplying quality products and in time for future patronage.