NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Completion of 0m greater Abuja water supply project excites Wike

Completion of $470m greater Abuja water supply project excites Wike

144 total views today

By Philip Yatai

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, expressed excitement for completing the 470 million dollars Greater Abuja Water Supply Project eight years after.

Wike expressed his excitement in Abuja on Monday. at the inauguration of the project by President Bola Tinubu to celebrate his second year in office.

He explained that the project was awarded in 2017 under a partnership with the African Development Initiative to take care of loop one, two, five and six.

He added that the Chinese government provided 85 per cent of the funds while the Federal Government and the FCT provided 15 per cent.

The minister added that the project was completed in just two years in office, following Tinubu’s directive to improve water supply in the city.

“Although the project was awarded since 2017, your administration has completed it and today we are inaugurating it to improve water supply in the city,” he said.

Wike recalled that the FCT Administration had in 2024 signed a Memorandum of Understanding with a Chinese company to provide water in FCT satellite towns.

“I want to say today, that we almost completed the procurement process to provide water to residents of Bwari, Kubwa, and Karu among other communities.

“So, Mr President, you are not only providing water to residents in the cities; you are also providing water to residents in satellite towns,” he added.

He thanked Tinubu for the support and assured the President that this project would be completed and inaugurated in 2026 to celebrate his third year in office.

He equally thanked the National Assembly for the tireless support, which he described as “very encouraging”.

Inaugurating the project, Tinubu described it as a “monumental effort” that would ensure safe, sustainable and sufficient water to homes, institutions and communities across the capital city.

According to him, water is not a luxury, but a basic for human right and a foundation for public health, urban development and economic growth.

He thanked Wike for exhibiting a very great virtue of leadership.

“This virtue is when a leader is very conscious of the needs of his people and he goes about, committed with dedication to do it.

“That’s what you have been exhibiting in FCT,” Tinubu said.

The FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, thanked Tinubu for his steadfast commitment to the welfare of Nigerians and for making the delivery of essential services a key priority of his “Renewed Hope Agenda”.

“Your excellency, your leadership has breathed new life into long-standing projects such as this one, transforming plans on paper into realities that directly impact the lives of our citizens.

“The completion of these water supply loops clearly demonstrates your administration’s resolve to ensure that no community is left behind in our pursuit of national development,” she said.

Earlier, Mr Richard Dauda, acting Executive Secretary, Federal Capital Development Authority, said that the completed project would significantly improve access to potable water supply in the city.

Dauda said that the project involves the construction of water supply pipes in loops one, two, five and six in line with the provisions of the Abuja Master Plan.

He added that it involves laying of 425-kilometre (km) of ductile iron pipes at various diametres, comprising 256 km of main lines and 169 km of distribution lines.

“The scope of the project includes site clearance and excavation, construction of loops one and two in Phase II, III and part of Phase IV in the norther development corridor and loops five and six in Phase II and III in the southern development corridor of the city,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Halima Sheji

I have no regret naming international conference centre after Tinubu – Wike

I have no regret naming international conference centre after Tinubu – Wike

133 total views today

By Philip Yatai

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, says he has no regret naming Abuja International Conference Centre after President Bola Tinubu.

Wike said this in Abuja on Friday, during the inauguration of the completed 15-kilometre left hand service carriage way of OSEX Stage II, from Ring Road I to Wassa Junction.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that criticism followed the naming of the rehabilitated Abuja International Conference Centre after Tinubu, shortly after it was reopened on Tuesday.

Others described expending N39 billion to renovate the edifice as a misplaced priority.

Reacting, Wike wondered why some people were criticising the naming of the conference centre after Tinubu.

According to him, Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport was not built by Azikiwe and Moshood Abiola National Stadium was not built by Abiola.

He added that those criticising the rehabilitation of the centre do not have good taste.

“I have done it, and I have no regret at all,” Wike said.

He said that the only thing that was not changed in the centre was the structure saying, “everything in that centre was changed”.

He expressed dismay that instead of commending Tinubu for doing very well, some people derived pleasure in indulging in baseless criticism.

Wike said those who described the N39 billion spent on the renovation of the centre as a misplaced priority had lost track of time and the changing exchange rate of Naira to a Dollar.

“They said that the centre was built with N240 million, but which year? 1991.

“What was the exchange rate in 1991 compared with today? Look at it, 1991 and we are now in 2025.

“Nobody who loves this country will criticise the rehabilitation of the international conference centre,” he said.

The minister said that Nigeria was seen as the giant of Africa, adding that people must see what makes the country the giant of Africa.

“We deserve the best for the country and Mr President has given us the best,” he said.

Wike promises to dualised Apo to Wassa road  

Wike promises to dualised Apo to Wassa road  

150 total views today

By Philip Yatai

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, says the FCT Administration will dualise the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) from Apo to Wassa Junction.

Wike stated this in Abuja on Friday, during the inauguration of the completed 15-kilometre left hand service carriage way of OSEX Stage II, from Ring Road I to Wassa Junction.

He said that the step was to eliminate any form of traffic congestion on the expressway, increase vehicular movement and promote economic activities.

He said that the left-hand service carriage way of OSEX was awarded in 2017 at N6 billion and after variation in 2021, the contract sum increased to N21 billion.

The minister explained that on assumption into office in August 2023, he noticed that the road was in a bad state, the project was abandoned due to lack of funds.

He said that the right-hand service carriageway was facing heavy vehicular traffic and slowing down economic activities.

The minister explained that the decision to complete the project was part of President Bola Tinubu administration’s commitment to complete all ongoing projects.

“The Apo to Wassa road project is one of such projects.

“I promised the contractor that we will make money available and to the glory of God today, we are here to inaugurate the road,” he said.

The minister said that the completed road would improve connectivity, ease traffic movement from Apo to Wassa and link Takushara and Kabusa communities.

“This is what has been lacking, and Tinubu has made it very clear that his drive is not just to develop the city but to open up rural communities for development,” he said.

He said that part of the funds used in constructing the road was from ground rent and urged FCT residents to continue to pay their taxes to enable the FCT Administration undertake more infrastructural development projects.

Wike thanked Tinubu and the National Assembly for all the support that translates to success being recorded.

The minister also promised to relocate Apo Mechanic traders and artisans from the OSEX road corridor to Wassa, adding that he would not only supervise the process, but chair the exercise.

Inaugurating the road, Tinubu said that the road from Apo to Wassa Junction was a significant addition to the road network in the heart of Abuja.

Represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, the president said, “this very vital infrastructure fully demonstrates our commitment which is the voice of the President now.

“It demonstrates our commitment to sustainable urban development, enhanced mobility, and improved quality of life for the people of the FCT.

“The OSEX is Abuja’s key transport backbone. It connects the city centre to rapidly growing districts,” he said.

The FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, said that the project stands as a testament to the Tinubu administration’s “Renewed Hope Agenda”.

Mahmoud said that the administration was delivering not just roads but new possibilities, enhanced mobility, and economic opportunities for FCT residents.

Earlier, Mr Richard Dauda, Executive Secretary, Federal Capital Development Authority, said that the OSEX was a 10-lane expressway with two main carriageways of three lanes and two service carriageways of two lanes.

Dauda explained that the about 60-kilometre OSEX commences from the Villa Roundabout to Apo through Kuje and connects Abuja to Lokoja expressway at A2 in Gwagwalada.

He said that the road was being developed in stages, adding that the first stage from the Villa Roundabout to Ring Road I was completed and inaugurated in 2024.

“The right-hand service carriageway to Wassa Junction had been completed and now the 15-kilometre left hand service carriageway was equally completed and inaugurated today,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the left-hand service carriage way of OSEX was the third project that was inaugurated out of the 17 projects outlined for inauguration to celebrate Tinubu’s second year in office. (NAN)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

FCTA to close Apo-Wassa road for project’s inauguration on Friday

FCTA to close Apo-Wassa road for project’s inauguration on Friday

228 total views today

By Philip Yatai

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has announced that the road from Apo Mechanic Village to Wassa will be closed to vehicular movement between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Friday.

Mr Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the FCT Minister, said this in a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday.

Olayinka explained that the closure was to allow President Bola Tinubu to inaugurate the completed 15-kilometre left-hand service lane of the Outer Southern Expressway, Stage II.

He said that the road, from Ring Road I Junction to Wassa Junction, would be inaugurated at 2:30 p.m. on Friday.

“Motorists are urged to use alternative routes between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. tomorrow when the Apo-Wassa Road will be inaccessible.

“Traffic enforcement personnel will be deployed to guide motorists and minimise inconvenience.

“The FCTA appeals to affected road users to bear with the government during this temporary closure,” he said.

Olayinka also said that traders, mechanics, and shop owners in Apo Mechanics Village had voluntarily agreed to close their businesses on Friday to welcome the President and participate in the commissioning.

“They are expected to resume business on Saturday,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Apo-Wassa Road will be the third project to be inaugurated out of the 17 outlined to celebrate Tinubu’s second year in office. (NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

APC will welcome Wike – Tinubu

APC will welcome Wike – Tinubu

116 total views today

By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu says the All Progressives Congress (APC) is ready to welcome Mr Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), whenever he decides to join the party.

The President stated this at the commissioning of Arterial Road N16 (Shehu Shagari Way), connecting Ring Road 1 (Nnamdi Azikiwe Way) to Arterial Road N20 (Wole Soyinka Way), along with accompanying interchanges and feeder roads in Katampe District, Abuja, on Wednesday.

The Wike-led FCT Administration executed the projects, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President’s spokesman, said in a statement.

Commending Wike for his dedication and collaborative approach to governance, the President said: “He could not achieve this alone without your full cooperation as a team builder and player. You have proved that teamwork is the hallmark of good leadership.”

Tinubu acknowledged the support of traditional rulers and local communities, especially in ensuring the smooth relocation of residents affected by the development:

“I commend the Minister for relocating the local communities affected by the development, with peace and good compensation. The government has played its part. I urge you to protect this infrastructure and use it wisely.

“He’s not a member of my party, not yet. But the day he changes his mind and registers with the Progressives, we will welcome him because we will enjoy him singing as ‘e dey sweet us,” Tinubu said.

He described the project as more than a stretch of road: “It affirms our commitment to transformation under our Renewed Hope Agenda.

“What was once a missing link is now a modern, functional, and durable infrastructure, an artery fully realised through the leadership of the FCT Administration under the Honourable Minister, Barrister Wike.”

He noted that the corridor had remained underdeveloped for years despite being an integral part of the Abuja Master Plan.

“This road will ease traffic congestion around Central Abuja and improve connectivity to developing districts such as Katampe, Jahi, and Bwari.

“It will stimulate housing and business growth while serving as a foundation for future city integration,” he added.

President Tinubu reiterated that infrastructure development was essential to Nigeria’s progress, saying: “Infrastructure is the bedrock of national competitiveness, growth, social integration, and economic opportunity.

“There is no way industrialisation will flourish without good roads. We invest in roads, rail, power, healthcare, education, and digital infrastructure.

“We can only unlock Nigeria’s full potential through this coordinated and integrated development. I promise you, we will.”

Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to continue delivering results regardless of political distractions.

“We will continue to build and serve the people, no matter how much the lesser minds pursue their politics,” he said.

Wike commended the President for restoring public trust in government and boosting contractor confidence, which has led to the accelerated completion of key infrastructure in the FCT.

“This road was awarded by the administration. It is not one of those projects we inherited,” he said, noting that the Federal Executive Council approved the project in September 2023 and it was flagged off the following month.

He admitted initially being sceptical about the contractor CGC Nigeria Ltd. until he observed their performance on another project.

“Companies and contractors are competing among themselves to have jobs awarded to them, and they are ready to mobilise to the site without the government paying them for the initial mobilisation.

“That is confidence-building, and that’s what you’ve created.

“No contract awarded by you in the city was abandoned. By the time you do your third anniversary next year, you will see that virtually all the contracts you awarded as the President will have finished, to the glory of God,” he said.

The minister emphasised the importance of the newly completed road, saying it connected critical judicial and administrative zones.

“It leads to the judges’ quarters, the Court of Appeal, the Federal High Court, and the Federal Capital Territory, and the judges’ court is almost ready,” he said.

Wike added that the Tinubu administration’s visible impact had neutralised opposition efforts under the ‘coalition’ movement.

“Your good works have defeated the coalition. I have instructed my people to ensure that every national television station must hook into the inauguration of projects.

“They will see what is happening on national television every day on every television channel. They have no choice but to watch Mr President for the next 17 days,” he said.

Presenting a technical brief, Mr Richard Dauda, the Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), explained that the completed Arterial Road N16 starts from Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway (Ring Road One) near Transcorp Hilton and extends to Arterial Road N20 (Wole Soyinka Way).

“The corridor integrates Maitama, Katampe, Utako, Jahi, and surrounding districts, providing critical linkages for residents and commercial users.

“The scope of work includes the construction of an interchange with two bridges, a flyover with interconnecting loops that link Ring Road One, and a flyover over the Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway.

“The arterial N16 is a six-lane dual carriageway with covered parking lanes, effectively making it an eight-lane road,” he said.

He added that the 3.7-kilometre road was delivered with complete engineering infrastructure, including underground surface water drainage systems, box and pipe culverts of various sizes, foul sewer and water supply networks, telecommunication ducts and modern street lighting systems.

“The work has been practically completed and is ready to be used. The completion of this project has provided the much-needed circulation and connection within the city, especially linking the 21 districts of Maitama, Utako, Jahi, and others,” Dauda said. (NAN)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh

Road construction: Wike orders compensation of affected residents in Guzape, Kpaduma

Road construction: Wike orders compensation of affected residents in Guzape, Kpaduma

180 total views today

By Philip Yatai

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) will ensure that residents of Guzape and Kpaduma communities affected by road construction in the area are duly compensated without delay.

The Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, made the pledge during a meeting with the traditional rulers and representatives of Kpaduma and Guzape communities in Abuja on Monday, over the road project.

He explained that the meeting was to address concerns over the delay in relocation of affected villagers living on the road corridor.

The minister expressed concerns over the continued presence of the residents on the road corridor marked for construction to ease traffic and boost connectivity within the FCT.

He assured the traditional leaders and community members of the government’s commitment to ensure justice and fairness to everyone affected.

He promised that every affected individual would be duly compensated, adding that a Right of Occupancy for new resettlement areas would be provided without delay.

Wike directed the Director of Resettlement to evaluate what it would cost to resettle the affected residents.

He pointed out that the compensation rate was too meagre and asked the director to increase it by 100 per cent.

“Increase their rate. If they are supposed to get N50, give them N100.

“We are not here to displace anyone unjustly. This is about building a better Abuja for all.

“We will ensure your people are properly compensated and given legal documents for their new homes,” he said.

He, however, clarified that compensation would be paid for only structures along the road corridor and not the entire community.

The minister emphasised the critical importance of the road project to the overall development plan of the capital city.

He acknowledged the deep-rooted attachment the communities have to their ancestral lands and appealed for their understanding.

According to him, government’s development efforts must sometimes involve difficult decisions.

Responding, the traditional leaders, led by Sa’peyi of Garki, Alhaji Usman Nga-Kupi, commended Wike for his transparency and the willingness to engage them directly.

Nga-Kupi acknowledged the benefits the road project would bring to the area and pledged their resolve to cooperate and support the resettlement process.

“We are grateful for the minister’s assurance and the respect shown to our people.

“We will support this effort in the interest of peace and progress”, the traditional leader said. (NAN)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

FG to spend 73.9 bn on Maraba-Keffi road

FG to spend 73.9 bn on Maraba-Keffi road

246 total views today

By Angela Atabo

The Federal Government is to spend N73.9 billion to complete the reconstruction and expansion of the Maraba-Keffi road project.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the government also set a 13-month completion date of June 2026 for the project awarded to MS. China Harbour Engineering Company(CHEC) Nigeria Limited.

The Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo, made these known while inspecting the ongoing expansion of the Abuja-Keffi expressway on Saturday.

Goronyo commended President Bola Tinubu for making the project a reality.

He said that the completion of the road would in no small measure reduce the transportation problems on the corridor.

“This road is very critical because it is crisscrossing a lot of states.

“We have completed the road from Keffi to Makurdi and the one from Mararaba up to Keffi is now ongoing.

”Makurdi to Enugu is ongoing and achievable progress has been recorde by the contractor.

“What we are expecting is that by June next year, the entire stretch of this road from Abuja up to Port Harcourt will be completed,” he said.

Goronyo said that the government had opened a corridor for movement of goods and services, adding that this had translated to reduction in travel time and other economic benefits.

He said from the assessment so far,appreciable progress had been made.

“This contract was awarded in June 2023 with a completion period of 30 months.

”Work started here in December last year and now you can see that they have gotten up to 42 per cent completion,” he said.

Goronyo also said that the ministry was waiting for a certificate from the contractor so that more funds would be released for the project.

He said the ministry would work out modalities to expand the lanes on the road for the benefit of Nigerians.

Speaking on behalf of the contractor, Mr Ronald Liao, CHEC Commercial Manager, said the road would achieve a 56 per cent benchmark by month end.

Liao explained that the company was unable to reach the benchmark on time due to the heavy traffic on the corridor.

“The traffic flow from Masaka to Mararaba daily is very heavy.

“So, we have no other choice but to work at night.

“That is a big task and a challenge to our work progress.

“However, with the help of the ministry and with the help of the controller and also the help of the FRSC, we will complete the work within the right time,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Mufutau Ojo

President Barrow pledges support for ECOWAS’ Banjul-Barra Bridge project

President Barrow pledges support for ECOWAS’ Banjul-Barra Bridge project

285 total views today

By Mark Longyen

President Adama Barrow of The Gambia has pledged his support for ECOWAS’ proposed Banjul-Barra Bridge initiative, describing it as a critical infrastructure that would engender massive development in the subregion.

Barrow stated this when he received ECOWAS Commissioner for Infrastructure, Energy and Digitalization, Sediko Douka, who led a high-level delegation to him in Banjul, on a courtesy visit.

According to a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja by ECOWAS Spokesperson, Joel Ahofodji, the president said that the project aligned with his administration’s development agenda.

He said that it would reduce travel time between the north and south banks of The Gambia, improve agricultural supply chains, facilitate regional integration, and improve national security and accessibility.

“This project is long overdue and vital for our national and regional development.

“It will significantly enhance trade between The Gambia, Senegal, and Guinea-Bissau.

“It will also unlock economic opportunities for local communities, particularly small-scale farmers and women traders,” the President said.

Barrow further added that the initiative was a milestone project that would facilitate cross-border mobility and trade in the region.

Speaking earlier, Douka said that the project was strategically important in enhancing regional connectivity, boosting intra-ECOWAS trade, and contributing to the socio-economic development of The Gambia and its neighbors.

The commissioner also briefed the President on the planned unveiling of its Feasibility and Preliminary Design Study, as well as the accompanying 11-kilometre access road.

He explained that the bridge project was part of ongoing efforts to strengthen regional integration and improve cross-border infrastructure and connectivity, adding that ECOWAS had reached an advanced consultation level on it.

Douka, accompanied by ECOWAS President’s Chief of Staff, Abdou Kolley, also held a strategic meeting with The Gambia’s Minister of Transport, Works and Infrastructure, Ebraima Sillah, and members of the country’s technical team.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Banjul-Barra Bridge Project is a flagship infrastructure initiative under the ECOWAS regional integration framework.

It is aimed at strengthening ECOWAS’ physical integration and economic development by way of a transformative development for The Gambia and the entire subregion.(NAN)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Strong political commitment, others vital for SAPZ project success – Adesina

Strong political commitment, others vital for SAPZ project success – Adesina

245 total views today

 By Lucy Ogalue

The President of the African Development Bank, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, says strong political commitment, ministerial collaboration, and institutional support are vital for the success of SAPZ project.

Adesina spoke during the groundbreaking of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) project in Kaduna State on Tuesday.

He noted that the success of SAPZs across Nigeria would depend on five key enablers for effective implementation and long-term sustainability.

“Firstly, strong political will and commitment at the highest levels must be maintained,” he said during his address at the launch event.

“Secondly, policy continuity is essential. Policy reversals with changing administrations create uncertainty and discourage potential investors.

“Thirdly, cross-ministerial cooperation is required for coordinated delivery and successful outcomes of the agro-industrial zones.

“Fourthly, to secure continuity across all 36 zones, the initiative must be codified by the National Assembly through appropriate legislation.

“Finally, to ensure proper coordination nationwide, this effort must be backed by law and institutional structures,” Adesina said.

The AfDB President commended the Federal Government and Kaduna State for their consistent support in making the Kaduna SAPZ project a reality.

Adesina described the development as a milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards transforming and industrialising its agricultural sector.

“This achievement reflects years of dedication, vision, and consistency in policy direction,” he said at the event.

He praised President Bola Tinubu’s leadership and Vice President Kashim Shettima’s continued commitment to SAPZ as a presidential priority.

He also lauded Kaduna State Governor, Sen. Uba Sani, for continuing the legacy of former Governor, Mal. Nasir El-Rufai.

“What we witness today exemplifies the benefits of political stability and consistent governance,” Adesina said.

He recalled that the idea of agro-industrial zones began during his tenure as Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture over a decade ago.

“The project was delayed by institutional inertia and fragmented approaches, but today we celebrate its renewal and progress,” he said.

Kaduna SAPZ is part of the first phase, involving eight states and the Federal Capital Territory in the ambitious initiative.

The AfDB has invested $200 million in the $510 million project, co-financed by IFAD, IsDB, and the Green Climate Fund.

Adesina emphasised that SAPZ is more than a programme; it is a transformation agenda for Nigeria’s agricultural and rural development.

Vice President Shettima, representing President Tinubu, reiterated the government’s dedication to agricultural transformation for economic growth.

The SAPZ initiative aims to make Nigeria a leading hub for food processing and agricultural exports.

Kaduna is expected to serve as a model for other states participating in the SAPZ programme.

Government officials, development partners, and stakeholders present at the event pledged their full support for the project’s success. (NAN) 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo/Ese E. Eniola Williams

SAPZ project strategic to FG’s plan for industrialise agriculture – Shettima

SAPZ project strategic to FG’s plan for industrialise agriculture – Shettima

296 total views today

By Lucy Ogalue

The Federal Government says the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ), is a strategic milestone in its plan to industrialise Nigeria’s agriculture sector and create sustainable jobs across the country.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima said this while performing the ground-breaking for the construction of Phase 1 of the SAPZ project in Kaduna on Tuesday.

The SAPZ is part of a larger national programme, with Kaduna, Kano, Kwara, Cross River, Imo, Ogun, Oyo, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) among states in the first phase of the project.

It aims at transforming Nigeria’s agriculture through innovation, private-sector investment, and strategic public partnerships.

The zones are designed to create agro-industrial hubs that integrate farmers with processors, reduce post-harvest losses, and expand rural economic opportunities.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the facility is located in Daki-Takwas, along Kaduna -Abuja, Expressway, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

Shettima said the project was a direct response to the long-standing challenges facing Nigeria’s agricultural value chain, including poor infrastructure, limited access to markets, and low value addition.

He expressed confidence that the initiative would catalyse economic growth by creating thousands of jobs and empowering Nigerian youths.

“We are not just breaking ground. We are building the infrastructure to feed our people, empower our youth, and fulfil the economic promise of our nation.

“This is not just about bricks and mortar. It is about people.

“It is about the resilience of our farmers, the ingenuity of our entrepreneurs, and the commitment of our government to build a future that works for everyone,” he said.

According to Shettima the nation cannot afford to be chained to outdated systems while the world moves with urgency towards innovation.

He said the SAPZ initiative was a strategy that “lays the foundation for real economic transformation.”

Shettima praised the Kaduna State government for its leadership in agriculture, describing the state as a key driver of Nigeria’s agro-industrial future due to its abundant arable land and historical role in agricultural production.

“Kaduna is not a stranger to agricultural leadership. What we are starting here today will become a model for other states to follow,” he said.

The vice-president reiterated the importance of involving young Nigerians in the agricultural revolution.” The SAPZ will generate thousands of jobs and equip the youth with the skills to become active players in the economy.

“The youth of Nigeria must not be spectators. They must be stakeholders and shapers of their own futures,” he said.

Earlier, Kaduna State Governor, Sen. Uba Sani described the SAPZ as a strategic investment designed to accelerate industrial development across Nigeria.

He said, “the SAPZ is a huge investment designed to position Kaduna State as a major player in Nigeria’s industrial development,” he said.

According to Sani, agriculture plays a central role in Kaduna’s economy, contributing 42 per cent to the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employing 60 per cent of the state workforce.

“In the 2023 budget we inherited, agriculture received just N1.4 billion. However, in 2024, we increased it to N23.4 billion, and in 2025, we have approved N74.2 billion,” he said.

Also. the AfDB President, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, applauded Kaduna’s commitment to the actualisation of SAPZ, highlighting the significance of agricultural industrialisation in the state’s economic growth.

While reiterating the bank’s commitment to the project, he said the initiative was currently being implemented in 27 sites across 11 countries, including Côte d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, Senegal, and Madagascar.

Also speaking, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, described the initiative as a turning point in Nigeria’s agricultural history.

“This programme will be a game changer. It is designed to attract private sector investment in agro-industrial processing, drive value addition, and enhance rural development.

“It will strengthen Nigeria’s agricultural ecosystem to respond favourably to the challenges of our time,” the minister said.

The SAPZ programme is being implemented with support from international development partners, including the African Development Bank (AfDB), the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).

The ground-breaking was witnessed by government dignitaries, stakeholders and partners who commended and pledged commitment to the project. (NAN)

Edited by Ese E. Eniola Williams

X
Welcome to NAN
Need help? Choose an option below and let me be your assistant.
Email SubscriptionSite SearchSend Us Email