FCT Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone(SAPZ) Project

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has announced that the successful implementation of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) in the nation’s capital is set to create approximately 50,000 direct and indirect jobs, with a significant focus on women, who will constitute 40% of the beneficiaries. Dr. Mahmoud made this announcement at the flag-off ceremony for the distribution of agricultural inputs to FCT SAPZ project beneficiaries, aiming to transform the agricultural landscape of the Federal Capital Territory. Represented by the Mandate Secretary of the Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, Hon. Lawan Kolo Geidam, Dr. Mahmoud emphasized the vital role of agriculture in human survival and the economy. She noted that agriculture remains the backbone of the economy, providing livelihoods for millions and ensuring food security for the nation. However, she acknowledged the numerous challenges faced by farmers and agro-industrial entrepreneurs, including climate change, poor agricultural practices, and limited market access. These challenges, she stressed, require innovative solutions and collaborative efforts. “For these reasons, the FCT Administration has fully embraced the SAPZ Project, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda,’ aimed at injecting the much-needed manpower, resources, and investments to revitalize the agricultural sector for sustainable development,” Dr. Mahmoud stated. She expressed optimism that the agricultural inputs being distributed, including bull calves, animal feeds, crop seeds, fertilizers, and crop protection chemicals and equipment, will serve as catalysts for building a more resilient and sustainable agricultural sector. Reaffirming the FCT Administration’s commitment to the SAPZ project, Dr. Mahmoud highlighted that the project targets empowering approximately 50,000 direct and indirect beneficiaries over its five-year duration. She was pleased to note the presence of some of the 5,000 crop and livestock farmers who have been successfully profiled and cleared under the first phase of the SAPZ intervention. Dr. Mahmoud also expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for creating the Ministry of Livestock Development, aimed at addressing the long-neglected livestock sector. Welcoming guests to the occasion, Hon. Lawan Kolo Geidam, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, Mrs. Grace Adayilo, emphasized that the SAPZ initiative seeks to unlock the immense potential of the livestock sub-sector in the FCT by providing critical financing and support to drive growth, productivity, and sustainability.