The Jigawa State Government has officially dispatched 30 newly recruited master technicians to China for specialised training in agricultural mechanisation, marking a major step toward revolutionising the state’s agricultural sector through advanced technology and capacity building.
The training, which spans six to eight weeks, will focus on agricultural equipment maintenance and operation. The selected participants, graduates with engineering and agricultural engineering backgrounds, are expected to return as master technicians to manage service centres and maintain agricultural machinery across the state.
Governor Umar Namadi, speaking at the send-off ceremony held at the Council Chambers, Government House, Dutse, described the initiative as a historic milestone. “Agriculture remains the foundation of Jigawa State’s economy,” he said. The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to mechanising agriculture to boost efficiency and reduce the reliance on manual labour.
To support this vision, Namadi announced the establishment of 60 service centres across the state under the Jigawa State Farm Mechanisation Programme. “These centres will facilitate the deployment, maintenance, and sustainability of farm machinery,” he stated.
Highlighting the state’s progress in procuring farm implements, Namadi revealed that 300 tractors, 60 combine harvesters, and various other equipment had been acquired, with 65% of the payment already completed.
He added that deliveries are expected by late December 2024 or early January 2025. Farmers will access these machines through the service centres at subsidised rates, ensuring affordability and widespread use.
The state’s Commissioner for Agriculture, Muttaka Namadi, noted that the China training is part of the broader Jigawa Agricultural Mechanisation Support System, which plans to train 2,726 individuals in specialisations such as tractor operation, fleet management, and service centre administration.
“This initiative will create approximately 8,000 indirect jobs and service at least 180,000 hectares annually,” he explained.
The trainees expressed their gratitude for the opportunity, emphasizing its potential impact on their personal development and the state’s agricultural sector. Abubakar Muhammad, one of the participants, said, “This training will equip me with the necessary skills to contribute to the state’s agricultural development.”
Another beneficiary, Sadiq Abdullahi, remarked, “This is a dream come true. I’m passionate about agriculture and machinery, and this opportunity will allow me to combine both interests.”
Similarly, Yusuf Surajo, a 32-year-old trainee, shared his excitement. “I am thrilled to be part of this pioneering group. This training will not only benefit me but also the entire state, as we aim to provide efficient services to farmers. I am grateful to the governor for his vision.”
The Jigawa State Government remains optimistic that this initiative will drive agricultural innovation and secure a prosperous future for its citizens, creating a ripple effect of economic growth and job creation.
