– Agricultural transformation in Nigeria
– AfDB Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones
– Nigeria food security initiatives 2025
Nigeria, in partnership with the African Development Bank (AfDB), is set to implement the first phase of the $538 million Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) Programme to tackle food insecurity and drive rural development. Groundbreaking ceremonies will take place on April 8, 2025, in Kaduna and Cross River states, led by Vice President Kashim Shettima and AfDB President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina.
Launched in 2022, the SAPZ Programme is designed to transform rural communities into agro-industrial hubs by improving food production, reducing import dependence, and creating over 60,000 jobs in each participating state. Phase 1 will be implemented in eight locations: Kaduna, Kano, Kwara, Cross River, Imo, Ogun, Oyo, and the Federal Capital Territory.
Kaduna will focus on maize, soybeans, ginger, and tomatoes, while Cross River targets cocoa, cassava, and rice. The programme will enhance productivity by 60%, minimize post-harvest losses, and establish sustainable value chains. Educational institutions like Ahmadu Bello University and the University of Calabar will provide research support and skilled labor.
SAPZ is funded by $210 million from AfDB, alongside support from the Islamic Development Bank, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and ARISE Integrated Industrial Platforms. These investments mark a significant step toward food self-sufficiency, industrial growth, and economic diversification in Nigeria.
