The Katsina State government has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Contec Global Agro Ltd. for the resuscitation and full utilization of the state-owned Neem factory in Katsina.
The MoU was adopted at a brief ceremony held in the conference hall of the State Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, during which Commissioner of Commerce Mukhtar Abdulkadir signed on behalf of the state government while Managing Director Thomas Chackunkal of Contec Global signed on behalf of the company.
The Neem factory was first established by the late Umaru Musa Yar’adu while he was still governor of Katsina State, and was commissioned by President Obasanjo in 2007.
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Neem is a fast-growing tree from the mahogany family valued for its medicinal applications, including in shampoos for treating dandruff and in soaps and creams for addressing skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis and athlete’s foot.
Nearly every part of the neem tree is useful, and many of its medicinal and cosmetic uses are based on its antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Oil extracted from its seeds can be used directly as insect and mite repellent and is utilized in many commercial pesticide products, including dusts, granules and concentrates.
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Abdulkadir noted that the move aligns with the restorative agenda of Gov. Aminu Masari’s administration, which aims to resuscitate all moribund industries in Katsina so as to create more job opportunities and add impetus to the government’s drive to diversify the revenue base in the state.
In his remarks, Chackunkal stated that the company was encouraged as a result of the determination and commitment of the Katsina State government towards revitalizing the factory, adding that Katsina will become the epicenter of organic fertilizer production for the nation when the maintenance exercise is completed.
