KEY POINTS
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The FG and AfDB have launched the SAPZ initiative in Cross River.
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SAPZ aims to transform Nigeria’s agricultural sector and create jobs.
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$934 million in funding has been mobilized for SAPZ projects.
The Federal Government and the African Development Bank have unveiled the design, construction, and operation plan for the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones initiative in Calabar, Cross River State.
The SAPZ programme, backed by significant investment, aims to transform Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, create employment, and ensure food security.
Officials at the event reiterated their commitment to ensuring the project’s success across various states.
Vice President Shettima highlights SAPZ’s significance
Speaking on Thursday at the groundbreaking of SAPZ, held on the site of SAPZ, Tinapa road, Adiabo, Cross River State, the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, emphasised the significance of the SAPZ initiative, describing it as a landmark moment in Nigeria’s agricultural development.
He said, “The promise of a vibrant agricultural value chain is exciting, and the journey towards its fulfillment is even more so.” Shettima further noted that the SAPZ project was already making strides, citing its recent launch in Kaduna State.
“We gather in Calabar, Cross River State, today to breathe life into the construction of this critical, special agro-industrial zone,” he added.
AfDB’s Adesina sees SAPZ as transformative for Nigeria
According to Punch, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Akinwumi Adesina, described SAPZ as a transformative project for Nigeria’s agricultural and industrial sectors.
Adesina asserted that the SAPZ initiative would reduce food imports, conserve foreign exchange, and expand food production.
He emphasized the transformative impact of SAPZs on rural economies and job creation.
“The special agro-industrial processing zones will reduce food imports, conserve foreign exchange, and strengthen Nigeria’s agricultural value chains,” he said.
Adesina announced that the AfDB and its partners had mobilized $934 million in funding. Co-financing of $938 million from other partners supports SAPZs in 11 countries, including Nigeria, Cote d’Ivoire, Senegal, and Ethiopia.
