Vice President Kashim Shettima has identified the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) Programme as a pivotal catalyst for industrial revolution, innovation, and inclusive prosperity within Nigeria’s agricultural sector, showing a significant shift in the country’s agricultural landscape.
Speaking through the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, at the SAPZ Programme ceremony in Ijaiye, Ibadan, Oyo State, Shettima reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to reshaping Nigeria’s agricultural value chain.
“We are laying the foundation for agro-industrial hubs that will empower agro-processors, farmers, stimulate local economies, and make Nigeria a competitive player in global markets,” he said.
The SAPZ initiative, described as a cornerstone of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aims to expand Nigeria’s agricultural potential and create widespread opportunities for citizens. It is designed to build resilience, ensure self-sufficiency, and foster economic prosperity through agricultural innovation.
Vice President Shettima highlighted the importance of synergy among stakeholders, commending the collaboration between the Federal Government, State Governments, and international development partners such as the African Development Bank (AfDB), International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB).
“This collaborative effort underscores our shared belief that sustainable development in agriculture is achievable only through unity, innovation, and shared responsibility,” he noted.
The Vice President also lauded Governor Seyi Makinde for his visionary leadership and steadfast commitment to Oyo State’s development, calling the launch a “historic occasion” made possible by the governor’s dedication.
As the SAPZ programme takes off, Shettima revealed plans to expand the initiative to all 36 states of the federation, with 10 states expected to join by the first quarter of 2026.
He thanked President Tinubu for his unwavering support of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in advancing the nation’s agro-industrial goals.
Source: Business Day
Image Credit: The Whistler
