Nigeria is set to launch its first national food city complex in Ogyoma, Benue State, with the state government calling for local support to ensure the project’s success. Governor Hyacinth Alia has urged the community to guarantee the protection of foreign contractors and project assets, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the multi-billion-naira initiative.
The governor’s representative, Johnpaul Kpenkaan, Executive Secretary of the Benue Investment Promotion Agency, led a state delegation to Ogyoma, where 34,000 hectares of land were formally transferred to the project consortium. The community, located in the Akpa district of Otukpo Local Government Area, welcomed the team with traditional rulers and chiefs in attendance.
Kpenkaan stressed the need for the community to prioritize the safety of visiting experts and the project’s assets, highlighting the significance of the national food city complex in boosting food production, processing, and export capacity across the country. Benue is one of six states selected to host the pilot phase of the project, which aims to enhance Nigeria’s food security and economic growth.
The national food city complex is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy, creating jobs and stimulating economic activity in the region. The project’s success will also depend on the collaboration between the state government, the project consortium, and the local community. As the project moves forward, the state government will continue to work with stakeholders to ensure its successful implementation.
The launch of the national food city complex in Benue State marks an important milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to improve its food security and economic development. With the project’s potential to boost food production and export capacity, it is expected to contribute significantly to the country’s economic growth and development. As the project progresses, it will be important to monitor its impact and ensure that it benefits the local community and the country as a whole.
