The Niger State government in north-central Nigeria has secured an impressive investment of over one trillion Naira from Chinese companies to establish a Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ). This initiative aims to enhance agricultural productivity and position the state as a leader in agro-industrial processing.
During a groundbreaking ceremony at the Government House in Minna, Commissioner for Commerce and Investment, Alhaji Aminu Suleiman Takuma, announced the state’s plans to transform its agricultural sector under Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago’s leadership.
This significant agreement was reached during the recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), representing a key step in boosting the local economy and creating job opportunities for about 5,000 women and youth.
Takuma also revealed that the Niger State Government is collaborating with the African Development Bank (AfDB), COVEC, and CREC to develop an implementation plan for the SAPZ, which aims to make agriculture competitive on an international level. By focusing on high-potential commodities, the initiative will promote increased productivity, value addition, market access, and private sector investment.
Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, expressed optimism that the project will transform Niger State’s agricultural landscape, driving socio-economic growth and development.
He emphasized that the program will enhance agricultural productivity, establish the state as a hub for agro-industrial processing, and generate thousands of jobs for the local community.