Nigeria has launched Phase 1 of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) program to transform its agriculture sector and boost industrialization. Backed by $538 million in funding, including $210 million from the African Development Bank, the program covers eight states—Kaduna, Kano, Kwara, Cross River, Imo, Ogun, Oyo and the FCT. Groundbreaking ceremonies in Kaduna and Cross River mark the start of the initiative, which aims to increase food production, reduce imports and create over 60,000 jobs per state. The program will enhance agro-industrial value chains, reduce post-harvest losses and increase agricultural productivity by over 60%. Agro-Industrial Hubs and Transformation Centers will be located in high-potential areas near major universities to integrate innovation and research. Crops such as maize, soybeans, tomatoes, cocoa, and cassava will be the focus in strategic regions. The SAPZ program is a key step in reversing Nigeria’s $4.7 billion annual food import bill and revitalizing rural economies.
Summarized from the original article published here
