The officials of the National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI), Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Kaduna State have unveiled plans by the Institute to conclude work on the establishment of 20 hectares pasture seed multiplication plot for the Kano State Agro-Pastoral Development project by December.
In a statement by the Director of Public Affairs ABU, Awwalu Umar, the duration of the project, which started in January, 2021, and billed to be completed in September this year, was extended to December, following a request by the Kano State Agricultural Development Project (KSADP) for the extension.

According to him, the project is essentially for the establishment and maintenance of 20 hectares of pasture seed multiplication plot at Dudduru in Ajingi Local Council area of the state.

He said: “It 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 January 7, 2021 at a ceremony attended by all stakeholders involved in the project. Both the NAPRI and KSADP agreed on a work plan used as a guide for the project.”

Umar however, explained that: “the scope of the project includes 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.”

Meanwhile, the Executive Director of NAPRI, Prof. Mohammed Rabiu Hassan has 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 further acknowledged with deep appreciation the support and cooperation of the State Coordinator of KSADP and all staff and management in the course of the project.

The Executive Director, who also commended community leaders, security, and other stakeholders involved in the project, appreciated the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kabiru Bala, and all staff and management of NAPRI for their support towards the success of the project.