The Deputy Governor of Katsina state, Alhaji Mannir Yakubu, has disclosed that the Federal Government has released N6.25 billion for the establishment of cattle ranches in local government areas affected by banditry in the state.

Yakubu, also Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, disclosed this during the Ranch Stakeholders Development Meeting in Katsina on Monday.

He said that the frontline local government areas where grazing reserves would be established were Jibia, Batsari, Dutsinma, Safana, Danmusa, Kankara, Faskari and Sabuwa Dandume among others.

According to him, part of the funds will be used to construct schools, health centres and veterinary clinics in the affected communities.

The deputy governor said that the state government would engage reputable contractors to handle the projects.

According to him, the federal and the state governments are determined to ensure that peace and stability are restored areas that affected by banditry, cattle rustling, kidnapping and other criminalities.

“We are therefore soliciting for the support and cooperation of the affected communities to provide suitable sites for the execution of these projects,” Yakubu said. (NAN)