KEY POINTS

• Kaduna becomes the first state to launch an Agro-Industrial Zone.

• Governor Uba Sani’s leadership increases the state’s agricultural budget.

• Dr. Akinwumi Adesina praises Kaduna’s efforts to transform agriculture.

Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (ADB), praised Kaduna State for launching Nigeria’s first Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ). During his visit to the state capital, he commended Governor Uba Sani for his commitment to agricultural transformation.

Dr. Adesina highlighted the significant increase in Kaduna’s agricultural budget, from N1.4 billion to N74 billion, as a testament to the political will and substantial investment in the sector.

According to Dr. Adesina, Kaduna’s actions go beyond vision; they reflect a solid plan for food security and economic prosperity.

He described the state as a trailblazer, setting a roadmap for inclusive development in Nigeria’s agricultural sector. The launch of the SAPZ marks a historic achievement for the state and sets an example for other regions.

Kaduna’s agricultural investment boosts local and national growth

Governor Uba Sani echoed Dr. Adesina’s sentiments, emphasizing how agriculture contributes significantly to Kaduna’s economy, accounting for 42 percent of the state’s GDP and 60 percent of employment.

He explained that insecurity had previously hindered the development of the sector but believed that with the increased budget and the Agro-Industrial Processing Zone, they would address these challenges effectively. The state has also achieved the 10 percent agricultural budget target set by the 2014 Malabo Declaration.

Governor Sani also recalled how Dr. Adesina’s E-wallet initiative, launched during his tenure as Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture, impacted more than 15 million smallholder farmers, especially in northern Nigeria. This initiative, aimed at transforming agriculture, was seen as a solution to issues like financial exclusion and insecurity, issues that continue to affect northern Nigeria’s development.

Akinwumi Adesina pledges continued support for Kaduna’s growth

According to Vanguard, Dr. Adesina reaffirmed the ADB’s commitment to supporting Kaduna’s agricultural and infrastructural projects. This includes expanding school feeding programs, improving primary healthcare, and enhancing water, sanitation, and digital infrastructure.

He praised Governor Uba Sani as a model leader who listens and leads with compassion, highlighting his efforts to bring sustainable development to Kaduna.

Dr. Adesina’s visit emphasized the partnership between the ADB and Kaduna’s government, showcasing how collaborative efforts can drive agricultural transformation and national development.