Niger govt secures $684m deal to boost agric sector

The Niger State government has secured an investment exceeding N1.094tr from Chinese firms for the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ), aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and establishing the state as a hub for agro-industrial processing.

The Commissioner for Commerce and Investment, Aminu Suleiman Takuma, announced this development shortly after the groundbreaking and signing ceremony at the Government House in Minna.

He said that the state is on a path to becoming a significant player in Nigeria’s agricultural sector, driven by the vision of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago.

Takuma said, “We have taken a significant step towards transforming the agricultural sector through a partnership with Chinese investors, securing an investment worth $684 million (N1.094 trillion) in the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) from China Overseas Engineering Group Company Limited (COVEC) and China Railway Engineering Corporation (CREC).”

This milestone agreement was signed during the recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), marking a major breakthrough in the state’s efforts to boost its economy and create job opportunities for approximately 5,000 women and youth.

Takuma further revealed that the Niger State government had crucial meetings with the African Development Bank (AfDB) team, COVEC, and CREC to discuss the implementation plan for the SAPZ development, which aims to transform agriculture into an internationally competitive sector across Africa.

He stated that by focusing on high-potential commodities, the programme will enhance productivity, add value, improve market access, and attract private sector investment.

Earlier, the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, remarked that the project is expected to revolutionise the agricultural landscape and stimulate socio-economic growth and development in the state.

He added, “With the support of COVEC and CREC, Niger State is not only poised to become a model for agricultural transformation in Nigeria but will also attract significant investments from local and international partners.

“The programme will boost agricultural productivity, establish the state as a hub for agro-industrial processing, and generate thousands of employment opportunities for locals.”