Vice President Kashim Shettima, has said the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) Programme will drive industrial revolution in the agricultural sector, innovation and inclusive prosperity.

The vice president, represented by Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, made the assertion at the groundbreaking ceremony of the SAPZ Programme in Ijaiye, Ibadan, Oyo State on Saturday.

Shettima emphasised the programme’s potentials are meant to empower agro-processors, farmers and stimulate local economies.

“We are laying the foundation for agro-industrial hubs that will empower agro-processors, farmers, stimulate local economies, and make Nigeria a competitive player in global markets. The programme marks a decisive stride in our collective quest to build a resilient, self-sufficient, and prosperous Nigeria”, he noted.

The Vice President added that the SAPZ initiative is a cornerstone of the Renewed Hope Agenda championed by President Bola Tinubu, aimed at restoring Nigeria’s dignity, unlocking vast potentials and creating opportunities for every citizen.

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He further lauded the partnership between the Federal Government, State Governments, and international development partners, including the African Development Bank, the International Fund for Agricultural Development, and the Islamic Development Bank.

Shettima also commended the visionary leadership of Seyi Makinde, Oyo State Governor, for his commitment to the development of the State.

“Your unwavering commitment and dedication to the development of Oyo State have set the stage for this historic occasion,” he said.

The vice president stated that the SAPZ programme would be expanded to 36 States, with 10 States expected to be on board by the first Quarter of 2026. He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to the transformative journey under the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.

“This collaborative effort underscores our shared belief that sustainable development in agriculture is achievable only through unity, innovation, and shared responsibility,” Shettima stated.

Ruth Tene, Assistant Editor, Agric/Solid Minerals/INEC Ruth Tene is an award-winning journalist with over 15 years experience in developmental reporting across several newsrooms, as a reporter, editor and other managerial roles. She holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism from the University of Maiduguri among several other certifications She has attended several trainings and certifications both locally and internationally and has been recognized for her impactful work in humanitarian reporting, receiving the Gold Award for Humanitarian Services from the Amazing Grace Foundation. She is also a recipient of the Home Alliance Fellowship, reflecting her commitment to fostering a more humane, safer and more sustainable planet. An active member of professional journalism bodies, Ruth is affiliated with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), and the Agricultural Correspondents Association of Nigeria (ACAN), where she continues to advocate for excellence, ethical reporting, and development-focused journalism.

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