Kano State government on Tuesday reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing education and agriculture developments for the economic and social well-being of the people.

The deputy governor, Aminu Gwarzo, made the commitment while inaugurating the Irrigation Suitability Mapping Tool Research Project at Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology (ADUSTECH), Wudil.

He said the state government had accorded top priority to education by allocating 31 per cent of its 2025 budget to the sector, which, according to him, is the highest in the federation.

Mr Gwarzo also said the government had declared a state of emergency in education to ensure a focused and comprehensive approach to education development.

“We have approved a development plan for the university, earmarked significant funds to settle outstanding liabilities, and prioritised the completion of abandoned projects,” the deputy governor said

He traced the origin of the university to the administration of former Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, which saw the establishment of two state-owned universities.

Mr Gwarzo commended the university’s management, headed by the vice-chancellor, Musa Yakasai, saying its efforts in attracting donor agencies for research collaborations in agriculture, ICT and other technological fields were impressive.

He welcomed the partnership between ADUSTECH and the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, particularly on the Irrigation Suitability Mapping Tool Project.

While acknowledging agriculture as Kano State’s economic backbone, the deputy governor said the state leads in irrigation farming, dams and agriculture schemes.

He described the Irrigation Suitability Mapping Tool as a critical innovation that would help the government, financial institutions and input suppliers to make informed investment decisions.

“While this tool does not replace traditional agricultural extension services, it will significantly enhance farmers’ access to valuable business information and decision-making support,” he said.

He also expressed hope that the project would benefit the government, financial institutions, input suppliers, and irrigation farmers in Kano State and beyond.

Mr Gwarzo assured of the government’s commitment to the project’s success, urging donor agencies to support future phases for the benefit of more farmers.

(NAN)