By: Mukhtar Yahaya Shehu
The Kano State Government has expressed its commitment to partnering with the Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI) to significantly reduce post-harvest losses among farmers and promote value addition to agricultural produce across the state.
This was disclosed by the state Commissioner for the Ministry of Investment, Commerce, Industry, and Cooperative, Alhaji Gwani Shehu Wada Sagagi, during an official visit to the NSPRI Zonal Office.
In a statement signed by public relations officer state ministry for investment, commerce, industry and Cooperative Muhammad Nura Yusuf Commissioner Sagagi stated that the collaboration would address post-harvest challenges while creating employment opportunities for Kano’s youth, especially in agro-processing and related industries. He emphasized that the ministry is keen on supporting initiatives that add value to farm produce such as:
Tomato processing, to reduce spoilage and increase shelf life;
Bean flour production, to support local food processing industries;
Wheat and sweet potato flour production, to enhance local bread-making and reduce reliance on imported flour.
“These value addition efforts will not only empower our youth and small-scale entrepreneurs but will also help boost the state’s economy and enhance food security,” he said.
The Commissioner also commended NSPRI for its efforts in equipping farmers and agribusiness owners with improved post-harvest handling techniques, quality storage practices, and training facilitated by the institute’s team of scientists and experts.
In her remarks, Dr. (Mrs.) Alice Ajani, Zonal Coordinator of NSPRI, highlighted the institute’s mandate as the sole government agency responsible for preventing post-harvest losses and ensuring the quality and marketability of agricultural produce, particularly for local consumption and export.
She reaffirmed NSPRI’s commitment to supporting the Kano State Government through research, training, and the promotion of sustainable post-harvest technologies, including those that enhance value addition.
Commissioner Sagagi assured that the Ministry would actively work with the institute to equip Kano’s youth with practical skills, promote entrepreneurship, and support agribusiness development in line with the state’s economic diversification agenda.
The Commissioner and his entourage were conducted around NSPRI’s facilities, including processing and storage units, where they were briefed on ongoing research and technology deployment.
