FG Commits $538m to Agro-Industrial Zones

The Federal Government has committed $538.05 million to establish Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) across Nigeria, aimed at transforming food systems and boosting agricultural productivity.

Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, announced this at the Community of Practice Summit on CAADP in Abuja.

He said the programme—launched in Kaduna, Cross River, and Ogun States—will attract an additional $1 billion in private investment by 2027 and includes the provision of 2,000 tractors and equipment to farmers.

The zones are expected to serve as industrial hubs that connect farmers to processors and markets, creating jobs and improving food security.

A new Agricultural Sector Working Group involving research bodies, development partners, and civil society has been set up to ensure accountability and progress tracking.

Kyari added that Nigeria’s agricultural progress has been recognized by the African Union, particularly for reducing post-harvest losses through the Nigeria Postharvest Systems Transformation Programme, which targets losses valued at ₦3.5 trillion annually.

Germany’s Development Cooperation (GIZ) also pledged continued support through its Sustainable Agricultural Systems and Policies project, linking agriculture with climate action and biodiversity protection.

Stakeholders, led by Rosemary Effiong of the Coalition of NGOs in Agriculture, urged increased budget allocations and timely fund releases for agriculture at all levels.