Nigeria has launched a major agricultural transformation with the groundbreaking of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ), marking the start of a $510 million project aimed at revolutionizing the country’s rural economy. The launch event took place in Kaduna State, where a large crowd gathered to witness the beginning of this ambitious initiative, which is expected to uplift millions of rural Nigerians and reduce the nation’s dependence on food imports.
The SAPZ initiative aims to turn Nigeria’s rural regions into hubs of agro-industrial activity, boosting food production, enhancing food security, and increasing export capacity. Eight states are involved in the first phase of the program: Kaduna, Cross River, Kano, Kwara, Imo, Ogun, Oyo, and the Federal Capital Territory. A second phase is being prepared to expand the program to the remaining 28 states.
The launch of the SAPZ represents a strategic push to empower Nigerian farmers, attract investment into agricultural value chains, and generate employment, especially for young people. It reflects a broader national vision to use agriculture as a vehicle for inclusive economic growth and rural development.
The SAPZs are designed to cluster agricultural production, processing, and logistics in designated areas with modern infrastructure. These zones will provide rural farmers with access to high-quality inputs, modern equipment, processing facilities, storage, and markets. This model is expected to enhance efficiency, reduce post-harvest losses, and promote agribusiness.
The first zone was launched in Kaduna, a state with a strong agricultural profile. In recent years, the state has significantly increased its agricultural investment. From a budget allocation of just 0.4% in 2023, the agricultural budget rose to over 10% in 2025, reflecting a determined focus on transforming the sector. Kaduna is already one of the top producers of ginger, maize, tomatoes, and wheat, and home to vast livestock herds.
The SAPZ program is part of a continent-wide initiative led by the African Development Bank, which has committed over $934 million to support the development of agro-industrial zones in 11 African countries. Nigeria’s Phase One is being co-financed by several partners, including $200 million from the African Development Bank, $150 million from the Islamic Development Bank, $100 million from the International Fund for Agricultural Development, and $60 million from the Green Climate Fund.
To ensure the long-term success of the SAPZs, key enablers have been identified, including strong political support, inter-ministerial coordination, continuity in policy, and legal institutionalization of the program. Establishing a dedicated SAPZ Authority backed by legislation is also seen as crucial for sustaining momentum and achieving scale.
The SAPZs are expected to serve as catalysts for private investment, enhance rural incomes, and reduce the migration of youth to urban areas by creating viable livelihood opportunities closer to home. The project’s inclusive design ensures that local communities are engaged and benefit directly from infrastructure, services, and market access.
With construction underway, expectations are high for SAPZs to become engines of economic growth, unlocking the potential of Nigeria’s vast agricultural resources and positioning the country as a leading agro-industrial hub in Africa.
