By Abdullahi Lukman
The Gombe State Government has unveiled plans to establish a 184-hectare agro-industrial hub aimed at unlocking the state’s agricultural potential, enhancing food security, and stimulating economic development.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya made the announcement on Thursday during a state broadcast marking the sixth anniversary of his administration.
He said the proposed hub would include an international grain and livestock market, as well as a modern commercial abattoir, positioning Gombe as a major agribusiness and trade center in Northern Nigeria.
“This visionary project will elevate Gombe beyond a regional leader and establish it as Northern Nigeria’s agribusiness and trade powerhouse, creating boundless economic opportunities for our people,” Yahaya said.
The agro hub is part of the broader Special Agro-Processing Zone (SAPZ) initiative and aligns with the administration’s goal of sustainable industrialization.
Yahaya disclosed that the government had invested ₦24 billion over the past three years in developing the 1,000-hectare Muhammadu Buhari Industrial Park.
The governor emphasized that agriculture remains the backbone of the state’s economy, noting that investments in the sector are designed to generate jobs, increase productivity, and foster sustainable growth.
His administration has focused on supporting farmers and herders through input distribution, animal vaccination, and conflict resolution strategies.
To further strengthen the sector, the state recently established a Faculty of Agricultural Sciences in Kwami to address challenges around crop varieties, livestock breeding, and the adoption of modern agricultural technologies.
Yahaya also cited road and rural infrastructure improvements as part of efforts to reduce post-harvest losses and improve market access for farmers.
In the next two years, the administration plans to deepen its focus on commerce, agriculture, and renewable energy.
Gombe State is currently promoting integrated crop management practices such as conservation agriculture, intercropping, and agroforestry, alongside livestock development strategies like sustainable pastoralism and value-added meat and dairy processing.
To support these efforts, the state is partnering with private sector players and development agencies to enhance sustainability and productivity—especially for smallholder farmers—across the agricultural value chain.
