Amanze Chinonye
Abia State has reaffirmed its commitment to partner with the African Development Bank (AfDB) in establishing a Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ), a transformative project aimed at turning agricultural production into value-added industries, Prime Business Africa reports.
Governor Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, made the announcement on Monday while hosting an AfDB delegation led by Dr. Bernard Onzima, the team lead for the Bank’s agro-industrial initiatives.
The Governor assured the team that the State is prepared to co-finance the project and provide critical infrastructure, including electricity and access roads, to ensure the initiative thrives.
Join our WhatsApp Channel“We are ready to provide the resources and support needed for this project,” Governor Otti said. “Our government will work hand in hand with your team to understand requirements and deliver on them without delay.”
Highlighting the State’s readiness, Governor Otti pointed to the Ukwa West site, already evaluated by the AfDB team, as a key location for the agro-processing hub. He added that other areas such as Ukwa East, Umuahia, Ikwuano, Bende, Ulonna, and Abam in Arochukwu also have the potential to host agricultural processing facilities, creating a network of industrial zones across the State.
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The Governor also commended the AfDB for its support of the Abia State Integrated Infrastructural Development (ABSID) project, noting that the State has already provided its counterpart funding and looks forward to expanding the partnership through the SAPZ programme.
Speaking during the visit, Dr. Onzima explained that Phase Two of the SAPZ Programme aims to address challenges in downstream agro-processing while reducing investment risks for private sector actors. He disclosed that Tranche 2 will provide $200 million in funding from AfDB, with an additional $150 million expected in co-financing from the Islamic Development Bank for the eight selected states.
The pre-appraisal team is evaluating Abia’s suitability based on site readiness, environmental and social safeguards, procurement capacity, and private sector engagement, essential factors for ensuring long-term sustainability. “Agro-industrial zones achieve maximum impact when public investment aligns with private sector participation,” Dr. Onzima said.
Dr. Cliff Agbaeze, Abia State Commissioner for Agriculture, emphasized the strategic advantage of Ukwa West due to its proximity to the Abia Industrial and Innovation Park, which will provide supporting infrastructure for the processing zone. He also noted that the government is assessing other locations in Bende, Ikwuano, and northern parts of the State to expand the initiative.
Analysts suggest that Abia’s inclusion in SAPZ Tranche 2 could stimulate agricultural productivity, attract private investments, generate employment, and diversify the State’s economy beyond traditional commodities.
Other government officials present at the meeting included Mr. Odinakachi Eric Emeh, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Multilateral and Donor Agencies, and Mrs. Ijeoma Aguwa, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
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