The Jigawa State Government has signed a $10m joint venture agreement with India’s Srinivasa Farms Private Limited to establish a modern poultry hatchery aimed at improving the supply of day-old chicks to farmers.
The development was announced in a statement issued on Friday by Hamisu Mohammed Gumel, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Umar Namadi.
The agreement provides for Srinivasa Farms to hold a 60 per cent stake in the venture, while the state government will own the remaining 40 per cent.
The state government said the proposed facility was expected to be the first modern hatchery of its kind in Northern Nigeria.
Governor Umar Namadi, who presided over the signing ceremony, said the investment would create opportunities for poultry farmers and support efforts to improve food security.
“I am confident that this project will revolutionise the poultry industry, not only in Jigawa State and Northern Nigeria, but across the country. It is also part of our efforts to support the Federal Government’s agenda on food security,” he said.
Namadi said the partnership followed engagements with the Indian company, including a visit by a state delegation to its facilities in India, where officials observed its poultry operations and support programmes for smallholder farmers.
He said the company’s approach to helping smallholder farmers establish sustainable businesses informed the state’s decision to enter the partnership.
“With this joint venture, I believe the poultry industry will thrive in Jigawa State, Insha Allah,” the governor said.
The agreement includes provisions for training, technical guidance and other support for smallholder poultry farmers to improve production and business operations.
Namadi said the hatchery deal was one of five partnerships being pursued following his visit to India to attract investment, strengthen agricultural value chains and create opportunities for young people.
The Vice-President of Srinivasa Farms, Senthil Kumar Krishnan, said the project would focus on empowering rural communities and improving poultry production through technical services and quality products.
