SAPZ to Unlock Vast Potential, Create Opportunities for Nigerians – VP Shettima
By Adewale Owoade
Vice President Kashim Shettima, says the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) initiative is aimed at restoring dignity, unlocking vast potential and creating opportunities for Nigerians.
Shettima said this at the groundbreaking ceremony of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) in Ibadan.
Represented by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, the vice president emphasised that the initiative will provide local farmers access to advanced processing facilities, positioning investors to take advantage of the state’s agricultural potential.
“Today’s land breaking of agro industrial hub, under the Special Agricultural Processing Zone (SAPZ) programme at Ijaye Akinyele Local government area, marks a decisive stride in our collectively quest to build a resilient self-sufficient and prosperous Nigeria.
“The SAPZ initiative, is one of the corner stones of the renewed hope agenda, champion by our President, Bola Tinubu. A vision rooted in restoring Nigeria dignity, unlocking our vast potentials and creating opportunities for every citizen.
“It is a testament to our unwavering commitment to a future where hope is renewed through concrete action, strategic partnership and inclusive growth.
“This initiative is not just an infrastructural project, it is a bold declaration that Nigeria’s future lies in transforming our abundant agriculture resources into value added product that fuel industries, generate employment and uplift our farmers.
“Accordingly, we are expanding the development benefits of SAPZ across the 36 states in collaboration with African Development Bank, to onboard 27 more states, starting with10 states by 1st quarter of 2026, sequel to financing procedure between the Federal government and financing partners.
“Let us seize this opportunity with hope, purpose and confidence that the seeds we plant today will blossom into harvests of prosperity for Nigeria,” he said.
In his speech, the governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, noted that the project is a fulfillment of his administration’s promise to revolutionize the agricultural sector for job creation and prosperity.
“This administration has identified six major farm settlements with three more in Ilora, Iresa Adu and Ipapo to be designed for the succeeding government.
“These hubs are not stand-alone structures, they are deliberately designed as interconnector anchors of our agro business ecosystem, they bring producers closer to the processors and link farms to market.
“They reflect our believe that agriculture is not just about food, it is about infrastructure, enterprise, and also about national relevant
“We are building a future where agriculture feeds not just homes, but industries, where it doesn’t just sustain families but entire economy, and this why this project is very important.
“We cannot build a resilient economy if we neglect this type of sector that employs the most people, uses the most land, and offers the greatest potential for inclusive growth.
“We cannot talk about national food security without regional hub like this one pulling their weight,” Makinde said
Also, the President of the African Development Bank Dr Akinwumi Adesina, lauded the project and expressed optimism that it will be a success.
Various stakeholders, including the IITA Director-General, Dr Simeon Ehui and Oyo State Agribusiness Director-General, Dr Debo Akande, praised the Makinde-led administration for reducing infrastructural deficits and promoting agricultural development.
The ceremony was attended by prominent dignitaries, including a former military Governor, Oladayo Popoola, Deputy Governor Adebayo Lawal, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Economy, Wale Edun.
Also in attendance are the National and State Lawmakers, Oyo State Labour leaders, Oyo state functionaries, religious and traditional leaders, among others. (NAN)
