Kano, NCX forge partnership to boost agribusiness, commodity markets

The Kano State Investment Promotion Agency (KANINVEST) and the Nigerian Commodity Exchange (NCX) have agreed to strengthen their partnership to attract new investments, improve agricultural commodity markets, and drive economic growth in Kano State.

The agreement was reached during a meeting at the KANINVEST headquarters in Kano, where Anthony Atuche, Managing Director of the Nigerian Commodity Exchange, led the exchange’s management team on a courtesy visit to Muhammad Nazir Halliru, Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of KANINVEST.

The discussions focused on expanding commodity trading, promoting value addition, improving market access for agricultural produce, and creating a more attractive investment environment for domestic and foreign investors.

Muhammad Nazir Halliru said Kano remains one of Nigeria’s leading commercial centres with significant investment opportunities in agriculture, livestock production, agro-processing, and commodity trading.

He noted that the presence of the Dawanau International Grain Market, one of Africa’s largest grain markets, positions Kano as a strategic hub for agricultural exports and commodity exchange.

According to him, closer collaboration between KANINVEST and the Nigerian Commodity Exchange would enhance market efficiency, improve price transparency, expand access to regional and international markets, and create more opportunities for farmers, processors, traders, and investors.

“Our partnership with the Nigerian Commodity Exchange is expected to unlock new investment opportunities and strengthen Kano’s position as a preferred destination for agribusiness and industrial investment,” Halliru said.

Anthony Atuche commended KANINVEST’s efforts in promoting investment and economic transformation, saying stronger cooperation between both institutions would support commercial agriculture, deepen agricultural value chains, and encourage greater private sector participation.

He expressed confidence that the collaboration would boost agricultural productivity, increase exports, and generate sustainable employment opportunities across Kano State.

Halliru added that the initiative aligned with the economic agenda of Abba Kabir Yusuf, whose administration is focused on economic diversification, private sector-led growth, and sustainable investment.

The meeting ended with both organisations committing to develop practical frameworks to strengthen commodity markets, attract investment, and promote inclusive economic growth in Kano State and across Nigeria.