LIn a bid to harness the potential of the Special Agro-Industrialization Program, seven Northwest governors are en route to Abidjan for a crucial meeting with Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB).
According to a statement by Sulaiman Bala Idris, the Spokesperson of the Zamfara Governor, the Northwest governors, representing Zamfara, Sokoto, Jigawa, Kaduna, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi states, will convene with Dr. Adesina and his team on November 16, 2023.
The primary focus of the meeting is to delve into the opportunities presented by the Agro-Industrial Processing Zones program. This initiative aims to achieve food self-sufficiency, generate employment, and bolster economic growth by processing raw agricultural commodities in regions with high potential.
Sulaiman Bala Idris emphasized, “The Northwest Governors will meet with Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, the African Development Bank President, and his team.” He highlighted that the gathering will involve presentations and briefings on leveraging the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones program.
To guide the governors in maximizing the benefits of the program, Dr. Beth Dunford, Vice President of Agriculture, Human & Social Development at the AfDB, will provide insights into the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZs) and the necessary steps for states to reap the rewards. Additionally, Prof. Oyebanji Oyelaran-Oyeyinka, Senior Special Adviser to the AfDB President on Industrialization, will brief the governors on Phase I and Phase II of the program.
The Northwest governors’ mission to Abidjan underscores their commitment to exploring strategic partnerships and initiatives aimed at bolstering the agricultural sector, achieving food security, and stimulating economic growth in their respective states.
