The Government of Imo State has stated that
with its inclusion in Phase 2 of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) initiative, the State is set to experience significant economic transformation.
SSA to Governor Uzodimma on Public Communication, Prince Eze Ugochukwu said that SAPZs aim to convert rural areas into thriving economic hubs through commercial agriculture and food production.
He explained that the African Development Bank (AFDB)is driving the transformation of African agriculture into a globally competitive and sustainable sector by partnering with governments and the private sector to establish Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZs) across 11 African countries including Nigeria.
Ugochukwu said further that SAPZs is an ambitious programme, designed to promote industrialization and economic growth through the development of agro-industrial processing zones, which has a proven track record of success in many countries.
He said that the programme, co-financed by prominent international development partners including the African Development Bank, the International Fund for Agricultural Development, and the Islamic Development Bank, aims to create thriving agro-industrial hubs across Nigeria.
Ugochukwu said that the SAPZ initiative focuses on boosting agricultural productivity and efficiency, creating jobs, and stimulating economic activity.
He added that by enhancing value addition to raw materials, it directly addresses food security and poverty reduction. The positive impacts are multifaceted, leading to increased industrialization, improved infrastructure, and a stronger overall economy.
According to him, Imo State’s participation in Phase 2 offers a unique opportunity to leverage these benefits, as the state can anticipate substantial growth in its agricultural sector, driven by increased efficiency and productivity within the agro-industrial processing zones.
He said that this will, in turn, lead to the creation of new industries and businesses, generating numerous jobs and stimulating wider economic activity, as the resulting economic growth will contribute to improved food security and a significant reduction in poverty levels across the state.
“The success of SAPZ in other nations, particularly its significant contribution to industrialization and its positive impact on agricultural productivity in Nigeria, provides a strong indication of the potential benefits awaiting Imo State.
“The initiative’s focus on value addition will unlock new economic opportunities, transforming raw materials into high-value products and further driving economic expansion.
“Therefore, Imo State’s inclusion in SAPZ Phase 2 presents a powerful catalyst for economic development and improved living standards for Imo citizens. The anticipated gains are substantial and represent a significant step towards a brighter future for the state.
“Governor Uzodimma’s strategic acumen has played a crucial role in securing Imo State’s place within this prestigious initiative. His proactive engagement with the Federal Government and commitment to implementing agricultural best practices positioned the state as a prime candidate for participation.
“The inclusion of Imo State alongside other key states like Kano, Kaduna, Kwara, Oyo, Ogun, Cross River, and the FCT highlights the state’s potential as a major player in Nigeria’s agricultural sector.”
Meanwhile in a State House Press Release, Vice President Kashim Shettima, whom his office is in charge of the SAPZ programme, called on SAPZ-2 partners to accelerate agro-industrial growth, to help the nation achieve food security, create jobs and help in economic diversification.
The VP described the project as a game changer for the nation’s economy, saying accelerated implementation plan for phase one and the on-boarding of the phase-two states will enable the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to actualize its food security agenda.
According to him, SAPZ programme aims to create new hubs that integrate the production, processing and distribution of targeted crops and livestock to achieve food security, increase incomes, improve livelihoods, and support economic diversification.
Speaking during the SAPZ-2 programme co-financiers meeting held at Presidential Villa, Abuja, the Vice President said the SAPZ programme would be a win-win situation for both the Nigerian government and the development partners in meeting their development objectives and impacting livelihoods.
“This meeting has become imperative to mobilize additional financing for the second phase of the programme to accommodate more States beyond the ten that has been earmarked.
“We currently have a commitment of US$600 million from AfDB through a multi-tranche financing arrangement of US$200 million/year and US$300 million from BADEA expected to be allocated on a US$100 million/year basis.”
On phase one of the initiative, VP Shettima noted that the first phase taught a lot of lessons which is helping the government to reshape the programme towards an accelerated delivery,
