The Federal Government has secured fresh funding from the African Development Bank (AfDB) to kick off the second phase of its Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) program, aimed at transforming Nigeria’s agriculture sector.
Vice President Kashim Shettima shared the news on his X account on Monday after meeting AfDB President Dr. Sidi Tah on the sidelines of the 80th UN General Assembly in New York last Friday. The new phase will extend the SAPZ initiative to 24 more states, expanding beyond the initial eight Cross River, Imo, Kaduna, Kano, Kwara, Ogun, Oyo and the Federal Capital Territory.
Shettima said the expanded program will push climate-smart infrastructure and inclusive growth to diversify Nigeria’s oil-heavy economy through value-added agricultural exports. Noting Nigeria’s status as the AfDB’s top shareholder with a portfolio over $10 billion, he thanked the bank for its $300 million backing for Phase 1 and cheekily added, “Like Oliver Twist, we’re asking for more.”
Started in 2022, the SAPZ program—run with the AfDB, Federal and state governments, and partners—builds agro-industrial hubs to draw private investment, reduce post-harvest losses, and boost market access for smallholder farmers. It strengthens key crop value chains, enhances food security, and creates jobs, particularly for rural youth and women.
Phase 2 is set to supercharge Nigeria’s agricultural shift, ramp up exports, and cement the country’s role in regional and global food markets.
Olugbenga Ige is a veteran journalist with a nose for great stories, with over nine years in the field.
