NAPRI to Conclude Work on Kano Seed Multiplication Project by December
By Juliet Vincent
The National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI), Ahmadu Bello University, will round off work on the establishment of 20 hectare pasture seed multiplication plot for Kano State Agro-Pastoral Development Project by December.
The duration of the project, which started in January, 2021 and billed to be completed in September this year, was extended to December, 2024.
This followed a request by the Kano State Agricultural Development Project (KSADP) for the extension.
A statement from Public Affairs Directorate,
Office of the Vice-Chancellor, Wednesday stated that the project is essentially for the establishment and maintenance of 20 hectares of pasture seed multiplication plot at Dudduru in Ajingi Local Government Area of Kano State.
The statement noted that the project is for onward collection and distribution of pasture seeds harvested for the establishment of Dansoshai grazing reserves in the state to address acute feed scarcity in ruminant livestock as well as mitigate conflicts between farmers and herders.
The project was officially handed over to NAPRI for full commencement of work on 7 January, 2021 at a ceremony attended by stakeholders involved in the project.
According to the statement, the Institute and Kano State Agricultural Development Project (KSADP) agreed on a work plan used as a guide for the project.
The scope of the project included site mobilisation, fencing of 20 hectares, construction of 40 tube wells, two security rooms as well as construction of two stores for seeds and equipment.
It also included seed drying shade, land clearing and preparation, routine pasture management practices and harvesting of plant species – gamba, stylo, and napier.
The Executive Director, NAPRI, Prof. Mohammed Rabiu Hassan, expressed the institute’s immense gratitude to the Kano State government and Islamic Development Bank for giving the Institute the opportunity to handle the project.
Prof. Hassan also acknowledged with deep appreciation the support and cooperation of the State Coordinator for Kano State Agricultural Development Project (KSADP) and all staff and management of KSADP in the course of the project.
The Executive Director, who equally thanked community leaders, security, and other stakeholders involved in the project, appreciated the Vice-Chancellor, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Prof. Kabiru Bala, and all staff and management of NAPRI for their support towards the success of the project.
