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At World Food Prize Dialogue: AfDB, Partners Vote Additional $1bn To Fund Nigeria’s SAPZs In 24 States
At World Food Prize Dialogue: AfDB, Partners Vote Additional $1bn To Fund Nigeria’s SAPZs In 24 States
By: Our Reporter
It was yet another bountiful harvest for the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration in its investment drive, as the African Development Bank (AfDB), Islamic Development Bank (IDB) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development hinted on Thursday that they have voted $1 billion to further deliver special agro-industrial processing zones in 24 States of Nigeria.
This is in addition to an initial $520 million voted by the development partners for the development of eight special agro-industrial processing zones in Nigeria.
President of African Development Bank Group, Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina, disclosed this at the Norman Borlaug International Dialogue, World Food Prize 2023, in Des Moines, Iowa, United States of America.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who is attending the event in pursuance of the food security and diversification policy of the Tinubu administration, had on Wednesday delivered his keynote address at the ongoing Dialogue.
Delivering his own speech titled, “From Dakar to Des Moines,” Dr. Adesina noted that the decision to pump such huge funds into Nigeria’s agribusiness was part of the resolve to develop Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZs) in 13 countries.
Explaining that it was the core of the food and agriculture delivery compacts from the Dakar 2 Summit held earlier this year in Dakar, Senegal, the AfDB President said, “We are investing heavily in the development of SAPZs to support the development of agricultural value chains, food processing and value addition, enabling infrastructure and logistics to promote local, regional, and international trade in food.
“The African Development Bank Group is investing $853 million in the development of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones, and it has mobilized additional co-financing of $661 million, for a total commitment of $1.5 billion. We are deploying effective partnerships at scale. We are currently implementing 25 Special Agro-industrial Processing Zones in 13 countries.
“For example, the African Development Bank, Islamic Development Bank, and the International Fund for Agricultural Development provided $520 million for the development of 8 special agro-industrial processing zones in Nigeria. The second phase of the program aims to mobilize an additional $1 billion to deliver special agro-industrial processing zones in 24 States of Nigeria”.
Dr. Adesina regretted that while much progress had “been made in African agriculture, 283 million people still go to bed hungry in Africa, about a third of the 828 million people that suffer hunger globally.”
He however described the Norman Borlaug International Dialogue World Food Prize 2023, as a “journey and narrative of how we are combining the power of science, technology, policies, and politics to ensure that Africa fully unlocks its agricultural potential, and feeds itself, with pride.”
The AfDB President thanked Vice President Kashim Shettima, and the President of Ethiopia, Sahle-Work Zewde, for participating in the global event, saying their presence is an indication “that Africa has the political will and is fully ready to tackle food insecurity and make hunger history” on the continent.
Also speaking during the fire-side chat with the AfDB President, Dr Akinwunmi Adesina, Vice President Kashim Shettima who spoke on the Tinubu administration’s initiatives for food security said the quality of present leadership in Nigeria and the rest of Africa will drive transformation in agriculture and other sectors.
According to him, “a nation falls or rises fundamentally due to the quality of its leadership. Right now Africa is blessed with quite a handful of quality leaders that have the drive, passion and skills set to redefine the meaning and concept of modern leadership.
“Bola Ahmed Tinubu, my boss, is a good example, Macky Sall of Senegal and of course, Abdel Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt are doing wonderfully well, just to mention a few of the African leaders that are distinguishing themselves in leadership.
“I want to assure this gathering of investors and stakeholders in the agricultural sector that my boss, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a quintessential 21st century modern African leader who is determined to redefine the meaning and concept of modern leadership.
“Be rest assured that there will be a sea change in the fortunes of the Nigerian nation and by extention the African continent in the next couple of years because Nigeria is an anchor nation,” the VP added.
On wheat production, Sen. Shettima said “our target towards wheat production in Nigeria is to achieve 50% self sufficiency in the next 3 cycles. It is inconceivable that we are the second largest wheat importer in the world.
“Luckily, we have already procured the heat tolerant variety of wheat seeds and we are going to drive that process by supporting the farmers with the heat tolerant variety, agricultural extention services, fertilizer and also hope to increase the irrigation areas to 1 million hectares in the next cropping cycle.
“We need to produce about 2.4 million tonnes of wheat grains in Nigeria. We are going to reach out to our farmers through small irrigation schemes and through digitalisation. All the actors in the value chain will be sufficiently taken care of through innovative finance, partial credit guarantees and crop insurance,” the VP emphasized.
For rice production, the VP said the major challenge for Nigeria is the insufficiency of paddy rice. He noted that Nigeria has adequate milling capacity but “we need to produce 3 to 4 million tonnes of paddy rice to meet our requirement of about 2.5 million tonnes per annum. We have 75 million hectares of arable land and most of it suited for rice cultivation.”
He added that “we will provide our farmers with certified seeds, fertilzer, extension services, the digitlization of services, inputs, finance and market information. Our target is to achieve self sufficiency in rice latest by 2027.”
The VP also spoke about the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZs), reiterating the Tinubu administration’s commitment to providing an enabling environment for investors in the zones.
He said government would create an SAPZ development authority that will operate like a one-stop shop where regulatory and associated issues will be addressed.
At World Food Prize Dialogue: AfDB, Partners Vote Additional $1bn To Fund Nigeria’s SAPZs In 24 States
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NDE disclaims message urging unemployed to register in its offices
NDE disclaims message urging unemployed to register in its offices
By: Vincent Ikuomola
The National Directorate of Employment has distanced itself from the message circulating on social media urging unemployed persons to register at any NDE office nationwide.
NDE in its disclaimer said the message is fake and it did not emanate from its office.
The Directorate therefore urged the general public to disregard the message in its entirety and refrain from acting on it.
NDE management also said any official announcements, programmes, or directives from it are communicated through verified channels such as its official website, social media handles, offices nationwide and recognized media outlets.
The agency stated in a disclaimer: “The attention of the management of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) has been drawn to a message circulating on social media urging unemployed persons to register at any NDE office nationwide, claiming the registration will last for three weeks and encouraging the public to share the information widely.
“The NDE wishes to categorically state that this information is false and did not originate from us. The public is advised to disregard the message in its entirety and refrain from acting on it.
“Any official announcements, programmes, or directives from the NDE are communicated through verified channels such as our official website, social media handles, offices nationwide and recognized media outlets.
“We urge the public to verify any information attributed to the NDE to avoid being misled by false or unauthorized communications.
NDE disclaims message urging unemployed to register in its offices
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Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Global Sustainability at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week
Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Global Sustainability at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week
By: Michael Mike
Nigeria has reaffirmed her commitment to fostering global sustainability at the Abu Dhabi Sustainable Week held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, who made the reaffirmation on behalf of the Nigerian government,
emphasized the country’s unwavering dedication to sustainable development, climate action, and energy transition.
He also highlighted Nigeria’s pivotal role as a key player in Africa’s green energy transition and its commitment to achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Tuggar also stated that “the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week provides an important platform for nations to collaborate, innovate, and accelerate solutions to global sustainability challenges. Nigeria is committed to fostering international partnerships and implementing policies that balance economic growth with environmental responsibility. As Africa’s largest economy, we recognize our duty to lead by example and champion a sustainable future for our continent and the world.”
The highlights of Nigeria’s participation in the event included showcasing the country’s Decade of Gas Initiative, which positions natural gas as a transitional energy source while scaling investments in renewable energy technologies such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power.
The Minister reiterated Nigeria’s ambition to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060 and outlined ongoing projects such as afforestation programmes, renewable energy infrastructure, and climate-resilient agricultural practicesbeing undertaken by the government.
He also noted Nigeria’s willingness to partner with international stakeholders to finance and implement innovative solutions in clean energy, waste management, and sustainable urban development, while advocating for increased support for African nations in climate financing, technology transfer, and capacity-building, stressing the importance of inclusivity in global sustainability efforts.
He said: “The world is at a critical juncture where the choices we make today will define the legacy we leave for future generations. Nigeria stands ready to collaborate with our global partners to ensure that no nation or region is left behind in the quest for a sustainable future.”
The Minister, on behalf of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, extended gratitude to the government and people of the United Arab Emirates for hosting the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week and fostering dialogue on these crucial issues.
Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Global Sustainability at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week
News
KACRAN Appeals for Increased Funding for the Ministry of Livestock Development to Combat Insecurity
By: Michael Mike
In a bid to address the escalating insecurity in Nigeria, the Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers
Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) has urged the National Assembly to allocate adequate funding for the Ministry of Livestock Development.
As various Federal Ministries, Parastatals, Directorates, and Institutions appeared before the National Assembly to defend their 2025 budget. KACRAN passionately appeal for their support in prioritizing the Ministry of Livestock Development, insisting that this is essential for fostering peace and stability in the country.
In a statement on Friday, the association outlines the rationale for its request to include: “New Ministry with Significant Potential, Established by His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Ministry of Livestock Development aims to resolve the ongoing conflicts between herders and farmers while enhancing food security and economic productivity. By creating millions of jobs and attracting investment in the livestock sector, this ministry holds
great promise.
“Leadership of High Calibre: KACRAN is optimistic about the ministry’s success under the leadership of distinguished individuals such as Honourable Alhaji Idi Muktar, the pioneer minister and a seasoned livestock farmer, along with Permanent Secretary, Dr. Chinyere Ijeoma
Akujobi, a Veterinary Doctor, and Mrs. Winnie Lai Solarin, the dedicated Director of Animal Husbandry Services. Their commitment to advancing government policies will significantly
benefit the livestock sector.
“Empowering Voiceless Beneficiaries: It is crucial to advocate for the voiceless beneficiaries residing in remote areas, who often have limited access to government services. The establishment of this ministry provides a vital opportunity for our members to become direct beneficiaries of national resources.
“Significant Presidential Support: The President has demonstrated a strong commitment to the livestock sector through the establishment of this ministry and the appointment of qualified personnel. It is imperative that the National Assembly recognizes the importance of this ministry
in the upcoming budget discussions
“Need for Structural Support: The Ministry currently lacks essential infrastructure necessary for its effective operation. Therefore, we urge members of the National Assembly to provide special
consideration and favorable budget allocations to ensure the ministry’s success.
“Consequences of Inadequate Funding: Insufficient funding could severely hinder the ministry’s ability to fulfill its responsibilities, which would have negative repercussions for the entire country. The livestock sector is vital for our economy, contributing significantly to revenue
generation and providing essential products consumed by nearly all Nigerians.”
KACRAN said: “In light of the numerous benefits that an effectively functioning Ministry of Livestock Development can bring, once again we appeal to members of the National Assembly to consider multiplying or tripling the proposed budget for this ministry. Such action will pave the
way for increased agricultural production, job creation, economic growth, resolution of conflicts between herders and farmers, and the establishment of lasting peace in Nigeria.”
It extended heartfelt gratitude to President Tinubu for establishing the Ministry
and the appointment of capable leadership, while calling upon all Northern Governors to expedite the establishment of similar ministries in their states.”
KACRAN Appeals for Increased Funding for the Ministry of Livestock Development to Combat Insecurity
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