Vice President Kashim Shettima says the timely implementation of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones Programme would drive industrial revolution in the agriculture sector, innovation and inclusive prosperity.

He made this observation in a statement signed by the Assistant Director of Information, Ezeaja Ikemefuna, on Monday.

Shettima stated that “we are laying the foundation for agro-industrial hubs that will empower agro-processors and farmers, stimulate local economies, and make Nigeria a competitive player in global markets.”

He added, ‘the programme marks a decisive stride in the collective quest to build a resilient, self-sufficient, and prosperous Nigeria’’

He stressed that the initiative is not just an infrastructural project but a bold declaration that Nigeria’s future lies in transforming its abundant agricultural resources into value-added products that fuel industries, generate employment, and uplift farmers.

He noted, ‘’the SAPZ initiative is one of the cornerstones of the Renewed Hope Agenda championed by the President, His Excellency, Bola Tinubu, GCFR. A vision rooted in restoring Nigeria’s dignity, unlocking vast potentials, and creating opportunities for every citizen.

He continued, ‘’it is a testament to unwavering commitment to a future where hope is renewed through concrete action, strategic partnerships, and inclusive growth’’.

Shettima revealed that ‘’it is a product of strategic partnership between the Federal Government of Nigeria, state governments, and esteemed international development partners, especially the African Development Bank, the International Fund for Agricultural Development, and the Islamic Development Bank.’’

The Vice President further revealed that ‘’I had the honour to represent President Tinubu and led a high-powered delegation to the just-concluded United Nations Food Systems Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to showcase SAPZ as Nigeria’s flagship investment programme, where, among others, I held a bilateral engagement with the President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development, Alvaro Lario, to request additional financing across the participating states to boost productivity.

He stated that ‘’this collaborative effort underscores the shared belief that sustainable development in agriculture is achievable only through unity, innovation, and shared responsibility. It is a clear indication that Nigeria is committed to leveraging global expertise, capital, and best practices to achieve sustainable growth and social inclusion.

“Accordingly, we are expanding the development benefit of the SAPZ across the 36 states, in collaboration with the African Development Bank, to onboard 27 more states in tranches, starting with 10 states by the 1st quarter of 2026, as a sequel to financing procedures between the Federal Government and the financing partners.”