Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has appealed to the African Development Bank to incorporate Zamfara State into phase 2 of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) program.

The Governor appealed while making a presentation on Saturday during a meeting between Northwest Governors and the President of the AfDB, Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina.

The SAPZ programme aimed to end the export of raw agricultural commodities, providing an opportunity for processing locally.

A statement by the spokesperson of Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said Zamfara missed out on Phase 1 of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) program in 2021 but will benefit from Phase 2 after the intervention of the Governor.

According to the statement, the Northwest States, including Zamfara, will experience unprecedented growth and development in the agricultural sector, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s economic transformation.

He said: “The meeting between the Northwest Governors and Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank, has opened doors of opportunity for the seven states in the region.

“The governors of Zamfara, Kebbi, Katsina, Sokoto, Jigawa, Kano, and Kaduna informed the president of the AfDB about the significant areas in the region that require attention.

“The Governors approached the African Development Bank for assistance in tackling crucial challenges in their respective States, such as security, human capital development, and agriculture. These crucial aspects are interconnected and significantly impact the overall well-being and prosperity of the people.

“Through collaboration and with the guidance and support of the African Development Bank, Northwest Governors will be empowered to create a safer and more conducive environment for their citizens. This will not only attract investments but also foster sustainable economic growth.”

The African Development Bank has expressed interest in providing support to Nigeria’s Northwest region. The Bank’s President commended the Governors for prioritising the well-being of their people.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity) to the Zamfara Governor
November 18, 2023