The Federal Government has selected Ekiti State to participate in the Special Agro-Processing Zone (SAPZ) Phase 2 programme, a flagship initiative supported by the African Development Bank (AfDB).
The notification, which was conveyed through the SAPZ National Coordination Office, affirmed the Federal Government’s recognition of Ekiti State’s commitment to agricultural transformation, industrialization, economic diversification and job creation, adding that the processes required to operationalize the program are in the final stages.
Reacting to this development, the Ekiti State Government said the selection was an important milestone and a strong endorsement of the Oyebunji administration’s agriculture-led industrial growth plans. The Secretary of Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Olatunbosun, said Ekiti’s inclusion in SAPZ Phase 2 reflects continued efforts to reposition agriculture as a key driver of industrialization, job creation and sustainable economic growth.
“This program will significantly increase value addition, attract private sector investment and improve livelihoods across Ekiti State,” Olatunbosun said.
He explained that the benefits of the SAPZ program are far-reaching and are expected to create thousands of jobs for young people, especially in agro-processing and related industries. He added that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will benefit from strengthening their value chains and improving access to new markets, supporting their growth and economic contribution.
“This initiative is not just about agriculture; it is about empowering our people, especially our youth and small businesses, to build sustainable livelihoods, improve food security and drive Ekiti’s economic future,” he said.
Mr Olatunbosun assured that the state government was well prepared for timely and effective implementation. He said the measures include the conclusion of supplementary financing agreements, the establishment of a national implementation unit, and compliance with environmental and social protection measures, including compensation of project affected persons in the agro-industrial hub of Ittapazi.
He mentioned the establishment of a dedicated project account and the preparation of a procurement plan and annual work program to guide execution and monitoring across project locations in the state during the deployment period.
He disclosed that the SAPZ National Coordination Bureau plans to hold training workshops to provide technical guidance to participating countries prior to full implementation.
He reaffirmed Ekiti State’s readiness to work with the Federal Government, development partners, relevant ministries and the private sector to realize SAPZ Phase 2. He added that the program is consistent with the state’s vision of strengthening food security, strengthening agricultural value chains and creating sustainable economic opportunities, while promoting inclusive growth and long-term prosperity. He said the government views the program as a platform to deepen cooperation, release private capital, expand processing capacity and sustainably improve the competitiveness of local agricultural products in regional and international markets.
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