By Grace Samuel
The Bauchi State Government, through the State Ministry of Agriculture, has embarked on an exciting new project – the Proposed Bauchi State Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ), Phase II.
This project aims to revolutionize agricultural practices, enhance food security, promote exports of processed agricultural produce, create more job opportunities and ultimately drive economic growth in the state.
A workshop was held at the Bauchi State Agricultural Development Project (BSADP) office to raise awareness of the SAPZ program and ensure that all stakeholders involved in the implementation process have a clear understanding of their roles.
The state Commissioner of Agriculture, Professor Simon Madugu Yalams, noted that SAPZ is one of the projects introduced by the African Development Bank (AfDB).
During the workshop, participants had the opportunity to discuss the project’s environmental impact, identify potential challenges, and develop mitigation measures.
The participants, including farmers and communities that are going to benefit from this project, were sensitized about the project’s objectives, and what is expected of them.
Bauchi state is among the two states selected from the six Northeast states that will work together with a consultant to ensure that the project requirements are met.
The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, emphasized that the Special Agro-Industrial Processing project would be implemented through a public-private partnership framework.
This means that the public sector will create an enabling environment while the private sector drives the program.
All stakeholders have been called upon to work together and support the successful implementation of the program in Bauchi State.
The Minister lauded Governor Bala Mohammed and the Ministry of Agriculture for their commitment and support for the project.
The support from the African Development Bank will empower Bauchi State with resources to create a safer and more favorable environment for its citizens, attract investments, and ensure long-term economic growth within the state.
