The Nigeria Agribusiness Development Fund (NADF) has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Katsina State Government, OCP Africa, The Infrastructure Bank, and the Sokoto-Rima River Basin Development Authority (SRRBDA) to establish a 50-hectare, year-round demonstration farm at the Sabke Dam in Katsina State.
The initiative is designed to serve as a model for modern, climate-smart agriculture in Nigeria. It will cover the full spectrum of agronomic best practices, including land preparation, seed genetics, plant nutrition, harvesting, post-harvest handling, and market access.
Speaking during the signing, Mohammed Ibrahim, Executive Secretary of NADF, emphasized the strategic vision of the farm:
“This model farm will showcase everything from proper land preparation through to a go-to market strategy. Our goal is to create a blueprint for sustainable agriculture that other states and regions can replicate.”
He also commended the Katsina State Government for creating an enabling environment and providing vital on-ground support including land clearing, mechanization, and farm management.
OCP Africa, a key partner in the collaboration, has already conducted comprehensive soil mapping of the site. The findings will be used to create site-specific fertilizer blends tailored to local soil and crop requirements, ensuring higher productivity and sustainability.
Governor Dr. Dikko Radda of Katsina State welcomed the project enthusiastically:
“When the idea of the project was introduced to me, I quickly jumped into it, given the chain of benefits it will have on the economy of our state and the livelihoods of our people.”
To ensure transparency and efficient resource utilization, NADF will deploy its advanced digital Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) platform, which will track project milestones, enhance accountability, and support adaptive, data-driven decision-making.
The demonstration farm is expected to become a regional hub for agricultural innovation, attracting further investments and strengthening food security in northern Nigeria.
