Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone To Take Off In Bauchi

The Bauchi State government pledges full support for the success of the African Development Bank-backed Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) within the state. Professor Simon Madugu Yalams, the Commissioner of the Ministry of Agriculture, affirms the administration’s commitment to bolstering the SAPZ’s success, aiming to enhance the state’s economy through the agribusiness value chain. Speaking at a workshop on the social environmental impact assessment for Stakeholders’ Scoping on the Proposed Bauchi State SAPZ, Phase II project, Yalams emphasizes the transformative potential of the project for agriculture, creating numerous jobs and impacting households across six states. Bauchi State, privileged to be selected for the SAPZ, vows to meet project standards, collaborating with consultants and involving relevant stakeholders like universities and the military. Alhaji Ibrahim Yushau Isa, the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, reiterates the government’s focus on developing various farm products to expand the state’s economy, in line with the requirements of the African Development Bank. Additionally, other financial institutions like the Arab Development Bank and the International Bank for Agricultural Development are also supporting the project based on its performance and proposed quality. Source: DailyTrust

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By prioritizing the success of the SAPZ, the administration aims to bolster economic growth, create jobs, and improve household incomes across six states. The inclusion of diverse stakeholders, including universities and the military, ensures a comprehensive approach to meeting project standards. The emphasis on developing key farm products, as highlighted by Alhaji Ibrahim Yushau Isa, aligns with the broader goals of diversifying the agricultural sector and enhancing food security. The additional support from financial institutions such as the Arab Development Bank and the International Bank for Agricultural Development underscores the project’s potential for success. This strategic initiative not only promises substantial economic benefits for Bauchi State but also sets a precedent for sustainable agricultural development in Nigeria. By fostering a robust agribusiness ecosystem, the SAPZ can serve as a model for other regions, driving informed decisions and fostering growth throughout the agricultural value chain.