FG committed to partnering states, private sector to multiply agricultural investments – Minister
By Abdullahi Lukman
Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to working with state governments and the private sector to increase investments in agriculture and achieve food self-sufficiency.
Idris expressed the reaffirmation during an inspection visit to Kainji Aquaculture Resources Limited’s Tilapia fish farm in New Bussa and the Hydropolis Free Trade Zone in Amfani, Niger State.
He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s establishment of the Ministries of Marine and Blue Economy and Livestock Development as visionary moves to strengthen regulatory frameworks and reduce imports of fish and dairy products.
The minister highlighted that the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy oversees over 800 kilometers of coastline and inland waterways suitable for aquaculture, signaling the government’s prioritization of food security as vital to national sovereignty.
Idris commended Kainji Aquaculture Resources Limited and the Hydropolis Free Trade Zone for their role in showcasing the potential of public-private partnerships in advancing Nigeria’s food production.
He noted the farm currently produces 1,000 metric tonnes of Tilapia, with plans to double production by year-end and reach 5,000 metric tonnes in four years, which will help reduce imports, create jobs, and tackle youth unemployment.
The Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh, also praised the projects as aligned with the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasizing that increased local production will reduce dependence on imports and conserve foreign exchange.
He noted the Bank of Industry’s support for such ventures.
Dr. Abdulmalik Ndagi, Managing Director of Hydropolis Free Trade Zone, detailed ongoing infrastructure developments including power substations, recreational facilities, a golf course, airport, university, and hospitals, with ₦30 billion already invested and a request for ₦10 billion more from the Bank of Industry to accelerate progress.
Kainji Aquaculture’s Managing Director, Sa’adu Baloni, reiterated the company’s commitment to boosting social and economic benefits for the community and nation, seeking further support to scale production.
The visiting team included officials from the Ministries of Industry, Trade and Investment, and the Bank of Industry.
