The Niger State government in north-central Nigeria has secured an impressive investment exceeding One Trillion Naira from Chinese firms aimed at establishing a Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) to enhance agricultural productivity and position the state as a key player in agro-industrial processing.
During the groundbreaking ceremony and signing event held at the Government House in Minna, the Commissioner for Commerce and Investment, Alhaji Aminu Suleiman Takuma, announced that the state is set to transform its agricultural sector under the leadership of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago.
He highlighted that this landmark agreement was reached during the recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), marking a crucial advancement in the state’s efforts to boost its economy and create job opportunities for approximately 5,000 women and youth.
Additionally, Takuma disclosed that the Niger State Government held important discussions with the African Development Bank (AfDB), COVEC, and CREC to develop an implementation plan for the SAPZ, which aims to elevate agriculture to an internationally competitive sector across Africa.
He explained that by focusing on high-potential commodities, the initiative will foster increased productivity, value addition, market access, and private sector investment.
In his remarks, Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, expressed optimism that the project will revolutionise the agricultural landscape in Niger State, stimulating socio-economic growth and development.
He further added that the programme aims to boost agricultural productivity, establish the state as a hub for agro-industrial processing, and generate thousands of jobs for the local populace.