Vice President, Sen. Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s agriculture sector through the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) programme, describing it as a strategic initiative that will drive industrial revolution, boost innovation and promote inclusive prosperity.
Speaking through the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari during the groundbreaking ceremony of the SAPZ project in Ijaiye, Ibadan, Oyo State, Shettima said the programme would reposition Nigeria’s agricultural value chains, empower farmers and processors, stimulate rural economies and enhance the country’s competitiveness in global markets.
“We are laying the foundation for agro-industrial hubs that will empower agro-processors and farmers, stimulate local economies, and make Nigeria a competitive player in global markets,” he said. “This programme marks a decisive stride in our collective quest to build a resilient, self-sufficient and prosperous Nigeria.”
Describing the initiative as more than an infrastructure project, the vice-president noted that SAPZ reflects a bold declaration that Nigeria’s economic future lies in turning its abundant agricultural resources into value-added products that will fuel industries, create employment and lift millions out of poverty.
“The SAPZ initiative is a cornerstone of President Bola Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda – rooted in restoring Nigeria’s dignity, unlocking vast potentials, and creating opportunities for all citizens,” Shettima said. “It is a testament to our unwavering commitment to a future where hope is renewed through concrete action, strategic partnerships and inclusive growth.”
He emphasised that the programme is the product of a strategic collaboration between the Federal Government, state governments and key international development partners, including the African Development Bank (AfDB), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB).
The vice-president commended the executive governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde for his leadership and support of the programme, which he said had set the stage for the groundbreaking event.
“Your unwavering commitment and dedication to the development of Oyo State have made this historic moment possible,” he said. “This event exemplifies the spirit of partnership and shared vision that is vital to our nation’s progress.”
Shettima also revealed that he recently led a high-level delegation to the United Nations Food Systems Summit (UNFSS) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where SAPZ was showcased as Nigeria’s flagship agricultural investment programme. During the summit, he held a bilateral meeting with the president of IFAD, Dr. Alvaro Lario to request additional financing across participating states to boost productivity and scale impact.
“This collaborative effort underscores our shared belief that sustainable agricultural development can only be achieved through unity, innovation and shared responsibility,” he said. “It is a clear signal that Nigeria is committed to leveraging global expertise, capital and best practices to advance sustainable growth and promote social inclusion.”
Reiterating the President’s full backing for the SAPZ initiative, the vice president confirmed that the Federal Government, in collaboration with AfDB, is working to expand the programme across the 36 states of the federation. He said that arrangements have been concluded to onboard 27 more states in tranches, starting with 10 states in the first quarter of 2026, pending final financing agreements between the Federal Government and its development partners.
He noted that the expansion is part of Tinubu’s broader agricultural transformation agenda, which aims to reduce import dependency, enhance food security and create decent jobs across the agriculture value chain.
A statement by the assistant director of information in the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Ikemefuna Ezeaja said the highlight of the event was the official flag-off of the SAPZ groundbreaking ceremony by Kyari and Makinde. The event marked the beginning of construction works for the Oyo State agro-industrial hub, which is expected to serve as a model for other states under the SAPZ framework.
The Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones programme is designed to concentrate agro-processing activities within designated zones to boost productivity, reduce post-harvest losses and strengthen linkages between rural producers and industrial processors. With Nigeria’s large population and abundant arable land, the initiative is seen as a game-changer for sustainable agricultural growth and rural transformation.
As the implementation unfolds, stakeholders say SAPZ has the potential to unlock Nigeria’s agricultural potential and deliver measurable benefits for farmers, processors and consumers alike – while serving as a key driver of job creation, export growth and economic resilience.
