By Ifeoluwa Odunayo
The Federal Government has dismissed claims of exclusion in the rollout of the five hundred and thirty eight million dollar Special Agro Industrial Processing Zones project, assuring that no region is sidelined.
Addressing reporters in Abuja on Saturday, the Minister of Agriculture, Senator Abubakar Kyari, clarified that participation in the programme’s first phase was open to all states, but only those that demonstrated readiness and met eligibility requirements were selected.
Among the chosen states are Kaduna, Kano, Kwara, Oyo, Ogun, Imo, Cross River, and notably, the Federal Capital Territory.
Senator Kyari explained that the SAPZ scheme is driven by a loan arrangement, making it essential for states to show commitment and preparedness before inclusion.
He added that the successful launches in Kaduna and Cross River have reignited interest across the country, including from states in the North East.
“The door remains open,” Kyari stated. “We urge lawmakers to support their states in fulfilling the application processes to benefit from upcoming phases.”
The minister’s assurance comes in response to growing concerns from legislators in the North East, who had criticised what they perceived as their region’s exclusion from the development initiative.
As anticipation builds for the next rounds of selection, Kyari reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring broad participation that will drive agricultural transformation nationwide.
