Nigeria’s federal government has launched a major agricultural transformation program aimed at boosting industrial growth, creating jobs, and strengthening its position in global markets. During a groundbreaking ceremony in Ijaiye, Ibadan, Oyo State, Vice President Kashim Shettima outlined the vision for the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) initiative, calling it a stepping stone to revolutionize the country’s agricultural sector. Represented by Agriculture and Food Security Minister Abubakar Kyari, Shettima emphasized the project’s role in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s broader “Renewed Hope Agenda” to drive economic revitalization.
The SAPZ program, designed to establish agro-industrial hubs nationwide, seeks to convert Nigeria’s vast raw agricultural outputs into value-added products through expanded processing infrastructure. Shettima described the effort as a “bold declaration” of Nigeria’s intent to harness natural resources for industrial development, job creation, and farmer empowerment. “We are laying the foundation for hubs that will stimulate local economies and position Nigeria as a competitive player globally,” he said, underscoring the initiative’s alignment with regional economic goals.
The project hinges on partnerships with international financial institutions, including the African Development Bank (AfDB), International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and Islamic Development Bank (IsDB). These collaborations aim to fund the rollout of processing zones across all 36 states, with plans to onboard 27 additional states in phases. Ten states are slated to join the first wave by early 2026, pending finalized financing agreements.
Shettima stressed that the SAPZ initiative extends beyond infrastructure, calling it a “cornerstone” of national development efforts. By focusing on agribusiness innovation, the government aims to reduce post-harvest losses, attract investment, and diversify the economy—a shift critical for a country where agriculture contributes nearly 25% of GDP but faces persistent challenges in processing and export capacity. The program’s success, officials argue, could lift rural livelihoods while addressing food security and import dependency.
The launch follows increasing regional focus on agricultural modernization, with similar projects in neighboring countries seeking to integrate smallholder farmers into global value chains. Nigeria’s push mirrors continental priorities under the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which emphasizes agro-industrialization as a driver of inclusive growth.
Analysts note that effective implementation will depend on sustained funding, stakeholder coordination, and resolving logistical bottlenecks such as power shortages and transport gaps. For now, the ceremony in Ibadan marks a symbolic commitment to translating agricultural potential into tangible economic progress—a mission officials hope will redefine Nigeria’s role in global agribusiness.
