Katsina State Government is set to lease out the multi-billion naira Songhai farm to a private company, Omena Nigeria Limited, at the cost of N600 million for a period of three years.

This was disclosed over the weekend by the State Agriculture Commissioner, Prof. Ahmed Bakori, while defending the ministry’s budget before the state’s House of Assembly’s Committee on Appropriation.

Located in Dutsinma Local Government Area, the farm was constructed and equipped with modern agricultural facilities at the cost of N3 billion during the Governor Ibrahim Shema-led administration.

It was designed to train farmers on modern farming techniques, produce fertilizer, and meet other agricultural needs for rainy and dry season farming. The farm is adjudged to be one of the best farmhouse projects in Africa.

The administration of former Governor Aminu Masari had leased out the project to the Dangote Group of Companies at the cost of N500 million for a three-year period, a lease which elapsed in 2023.

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Bakori stated that the current state government has entered into a new agreement with Omena Nigeria Limited for another three-year leasing period and is expected to receive N200 million annually.

He added that the company has commenced putting up structures for the full take-off of the center and hinted that the government may review the leasing agreement after the three-year period.

Responding, Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Lawal Yaro, said the House would monitor the implementation of the agreement to ensure judicious utilisation of the revenue expected to accrue from it.