Nigeria has kicked off a bold $510 million initiative to revolutionize its agriculture and food production, with the launch of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) programme backed by the African Development Bank (AfDB) and development partners.
The groundbreaking ceremony for the first of eight SAPZ projects was held in Kaduna State on Tuesday, drawing thousands of residents, government leaders, and international partners.
Vice President Kashim Shettima led the event alongside AfDB President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina and Governor Uba Sani, in a symbolic start to what is poised to reshape Nigeria’s agricultural economy.
Funded by a consortium including the AfDB ($200 million), the Islamic Development Bank ($150 million), the International Fund for Agricultural Development ($100 million), and the Green Climate Fund ($60 million), the SAPZ programme aims to transform rural areas into agro-industrial hubs that reduce food imports, create jobs, and boost exports.
“This is about building the infrastructure to feed our people, empower our youth, and fulfill the boundless promise of our nation,” said Shettima, hailing the project as a national imperative under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Adesina, who initiated the concept over a decade ago during his tenure as Nigeria’s Agriculture Minister, called the launch a personal and national milestone.
“The dream for the Staple Crop Processing Zones is alive—now realized as the SAPZs. What a great day for Nigeria,” he said.
Kaduna, the first host of the SAPZ, is already investing heavily in agriculture, increasing its 2025 agriculture budget to over $47 million. Meanwhile, Governor Sani emphasized the state’s commitment to turning farming into a driver of economic growth.
Phase One of the SAPZ programme will span eight states and the Federal Capital Territory, with plans to scale across all 36 states in subsequent phases.
Similar projects are underway in 11 other African countries, underscoring the regional push for agro-industrial transformation led by the AfDB.
“This Bank-led project honours our people,” said Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, Emir of Zazzau. Local farmer Hannafu Emmanuel added, “We are happy today because SAPZ has promised to provide quality inputs and guaranteed buyers.”
As Nigeria lays the foundation for a new era of agricultural prosperity, the $510 million SAPZ programme is set to become a cornerstone of rural development, food security, and economic resilience.
