The Emir of Zuru, a local government area in Kebbi State in North West Nigeria, Major General Muhammad Sani Sami (Rtd.) has appealed to the Federal and State Government to device other means of attracting investments in food processing so as to reduce spoilage of crops being experienced by farmers in the country.

Sami made the appeal at the closing ceremony of Zuru Uhola 2019 annual festival. He lamented the amount of cash crops such as mango, guava, cashew, tomatoes, pepper, and others that rot away or given-away at reduced prices during peak periods due to lack of processing facilities.

The traditional ruler also urged the government to assist small scale farmers involved in the cultivation of crops like maize, Guinea corn, soybeans, groundnut and beans.

“Our festival always showcased farm activities, and it also demonstrates the interplay between tradition and innovation in the social life,” he added.

Speaking further, the Emir said: “We would also request Government, through its relevant ministries in the State, to work towards making the Uhola Festival find a place in the National Tourism Calendar of events of the Tourism Board, Abuja.”

Also speaking at the event, the Kebbi State Governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Samaila Yombe Dabai, thanked the organisers of the Uhola Festival as well as attendees and pledged future government support.

In his closing remarks, Chairman of the Occasion, and former Deputy Senate leader, Senator Bala Ibn Nallah, said Uhola is an important annual traditional festival of the people of Zuru emirate. “It is a major seasonal rite and is associated with agricultural activities which is usually marked by harvest in order to show gratitude to God for a bountiful harvest as well as God’s protection against evil forces that brings disease, wars, lean harvest and others” he added.