The Zamfara state government, in partnership with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN), plans to support 10,000 youths in rice production.
This initiative was announced on Sunday evening in Gusau by the Commissioner of Youth and Sports, Tasiu Musa Shinkafi, via the ministry’s information officer, Suleiman Aliyu.
The goal is to provide youths with sustainable support and training, along with necessary inputs, to effectively engage in rice cultivation, contributing to food security in the state.
“The state government, through the Ministry of Youth, in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria, plans to engage ten thousand youths in rice production,” Shinkafi stated.
He further explained that, after thoroughly analyzing the economic and social benefits of the youth and sports sector, the Zamfara State Government has established a Football Academy to recruit young, talented players for intensive three-month training sessions.
“This training aims to prepare them to join foreign soccer clubs, with the expectation that proceeds from their sports engagements will be remitted to the state government in foreign currency,” he added.
The current administration of Governor Dauda Lawal has steadfastly assumed leadership responsibilities with a mission to rescue the state, particularly its youth.
“The present administration has motivated the Commissioner of Youth and Sports Development to tackle developmental challenges in the state,” Shinkafi noted.
“We propose to build an indoor sports hall in each zone to enhance the state’s revenue base,” he added.
He emphasized that these developments require determination, commitment, and support from the present administration of Governor Dauda Lawal.
