Niger State Advances Agricultural Development with Three New Special Agro Processing Zones
By Yahaya Zakka Minna
The Niger State government has successfully secured certificates for the establishment of three Special Agro Processing Zones within the state.
This significant milestone was announced during a post-Council briefing held at the Government House in Minna, where the Commissioner for the Ministry of Industry, Trade, Investment, and Private Sector Development, represented by Permanent Secretary Hamza Sarki Bello, provided updates on key government projects and initiatives.
The newly designated Special Agro Processing Zones will be located in Minna, Takunpara, and Mokwa, with construction expected to commence shortly.
The Commissioner further updated attendees on the ongoing Agro Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) and the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport free trade zone, emphasizing the state’s aim to transform the free trade zone into a major entry point for exports and attract Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs).
In addition to these developments, the Commissioner highlighted various ongoing projects, including the Agro Industrial Park in Lambata.
This project, along with others such as the establishment of CNG gas plants and upgrades to the NSCD suite, is currently at various stages of completion.
He assured the public of the government’s commitment to seeing these projects through to completion, bolstered by the expertise involved.
Addressing the investment partnership aimed at revitalizing the Niger State Fertiliser Company in Zungeru, the Commissioner noted productive discussions with an Indian firm following a Memorandum of Understanding established by the previous administration.
With the commencement of this agreement, fertiliser production is set to begin, and the Niger State government plans to procure approximately 40% of the output to ensure a steady supply for local farmers.
The Commissioner also announced collaborative efforts between the Niger Commodity and Export Promotion Agency and U.N. Women, which have led to training for 100 women in Shea processing.
These participants received business kits valued at N38 million, along with biogas units distributed to 150 women in the Bosso and Chanchaga local government areas as part of a pilot initiative.
