A new era of agricultural transformation began in Kaduna State today, as the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the Kaduna State Special Agro-Processing Zone (SAPZ) in Daki-Takwas, Chikun Local Government Area.
The historic event was graced by an array of distinguished personalities, including former Vice President Arc. Namadi Sambo, GCON; President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr. Akinwumi Adesina; Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari; Minister of Environment, Mal. Balarabe Lawal Abbas; Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Eno; and the Emir of Zazzau, His Royal Highness Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli.
Vice President Shettima, in his address, lauded Governor Uba Sani and the Kaduna State Government for their proactive and inclusive governance, especially in prioritizing agriculture as a cornerstone of economic revival. “This project is not just a vision—it is the foundation for a robust agro-industrial ecosystem that will serve generations. It’s about empowerment, growth, and sustainability,” the Vice President noted.
Echoing this sentiment, AfDB President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina described the initiative as “a dream come true,” tracing the roots of the SAPZ from conception to execution. He commended Kaduna’s bold step of increasing its agriculture budget from 0.1% to 10%, calling it a “clear statement of intent.” Dr. Adesina further affirmed AfDB’s commitment to supporting states that demonstrate transformative leadership in the agricultural sector.
Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, hailed Kaduna as a trailblazer in food security and agro-industrial development. He emphasized that the SAPZ aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, and would serve as a catalyst for rural development, job creation, and sustainable economic expansion.
The SAPZ is a strategic collaboration between the Federal Government, Kaduna State Government, and the African Development Bank. It is a government-enabled, private sector-driven initiative aimed at integrating agricultural production, processing, and marketing within dedicated zones. The Daki-Takwas Agro-Industrial Hub (AIH) will anchor agro-processing, logistics, and export-oriented industries, while the Dutsen-Wai Agricultural Transformation Centre (ATC) will enhance crop aggregation and storage for key value chains like maize, tomatoes, and ginger.
Additionally, plans are underway for an Agricultural Quality Assurance Centre (AQAC)—supported by Afrexim Bank—to ensure that Kaduna’s produce meets international export standards. This landmark facility, the first of its kind in Northern Nigeria, will boost competitiveness under the AfCFTA and open global markets for Kaduna farmers.
While HeadlineNews.News commends Governor Uba Sani for this bold and laudable agricultural initiative, we urge him to complement this legacy project by addressing the immediate needs of the people—particularly civil servants, teachers, and government workers in Kaduna State. It is time to implement the N70,000 minimum wage directive issued by President Tinubu since last year. Amidst the current economic hardship, a living wage is not only a moral imperative but a crucial pillar in delivering the dividends of democracy.
The SAPZ is a commendable step toward long-term economic growth. However, the everyday welfare of Kaduna citizens—especially those in the public sector—must not be overlooked as we pursue national prosperity through visionary projects.
Kaduna is on the cusp of transformation. Now is the time to match infrastructure with inclusive prosperity.
Dr. Imran Khazaly
Headlinenews.news.
