In a significant move to address the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State officially initiated the second tranche disbursement of a substantial N1.7 billion COVID-19 relief package. The aim is to provide crucial support to vulnerable individuals and communities grappling with the economic fallout of the pandemic across the state.
The inauguration ceremony, held in Katsina, underscored the strategic importance of this initiative within the broader framework of the region’s COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus Plan. Governor Radda, in his address to the gathering, highlighted the multifaceted nature of the program, specifically designed to bolster the agricultural sector and provide livelihood support to thousands of households.
A focal point of the program is the support extended to farmers, with over 13,420 beneficiaries set to receive agricultural inputs and assets. Governor Radda outlined the breakdown, stating that 1,170 farmers spread across the 34 Local Government Areas (LGAs) would benefit from agricultural inputs valued at more than N140 million. Additionally, a substantial group of 12,250 farmers would receive agricultural assets amounting to over N763 million, averaging N62,303 per farmer.

Furthermore, the program seeks to uplift 6,100 vulnerable and less privileged households from 20 LGAs by providing grants as livelihood support, averaging N50,000 per household and totaling N300 million. Beyond individual beneficiaries, approximately 43 communities, each comprising around 2,000 individuals, are earmarked to receive an average grant of N12 million. These funds are intended for the execution of micro-projects tailored to address specific community needs and challenges.
The disbursement is facilitated through the Katsina State COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (CARES) program, a locally conceived initiative responding to the broader Nigerian Cares (NG-CARES) program, with support from the World Bank. Governor Radda elaborated on the program’s impact, noting that despite challenges faced during its initial phases, it has successfully supported 526 beneficiaries from six LGAs.
The comprehensive program also encompasses micro-projects, benefiting 63,143 individuals, and extends support to 1,650 farmers in the form of agricultural inputs, and 1,360 farmers receiving agricultural assets. Additionally, 692 small farms have received operational support grants and Information Technology (IT) enhancement tools.
In endorsing the program, Mr. Abdulkareem Ogbaje, the National Coordinator of the Federal CARES Support Unit (FCSU), emphasized the tangible expression of care and solidarity demonstrated by the state government. Represented by Alhaji Shuaibu Aliyu, the state Coordinator of the project, Ogbaje commended the state government’s commitment to enhancing the lives of its citizens. He urged recipients to utilize the support responsibly, recognizing its pivotal role in collective efforts to combat poverty both at the local and national levels.
As Katsina State takes bold steps to address the socio-economic challenges exacerbated by the pandemic, the disbursement of the second tranche of the COVID-19 relief package stands as a testament to the government’s proactive approach in mitigating the impact on vulnerable communities and fostering sustainable development. Infostride News will continue to provide updates on the progress and outcomes of this impactful initiative.
Support InfoStride News' Credible Journalism: Only credible journalism can guarantee a fair, accountable and transparent society, including democracy and government. It involves a lot of efforts and money. We need your support. Click here to Donate