Federal Government Clarifies SAPZ Inclusion: North-East States to Benefit in Phase 2

Victoria Mbangwa

In response to criticisms from the North-East National Assembly Caucus over alleged exclusion from the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) programme, the Federal Government has firmly stated that not only is the region included, but three North-East states Gombe, Borno, and Bauchi are already part of the upcoming Phase 2 rollout.

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has clarified that the SAPZ programme, a flagship agricultural development initiative, remains open and inclusive, contrary to claims by the North-East caucus. The Ministry emphasized that the current administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to ensuring no state is left behind in national development efforts.

Speaking at a media briefing, the Ministry spokesperson addressed the controversy that emerged after the recent groundbreaking ceremonies in Kaduna and Cross River States. These events, the Ministry noted, were not indicators of exclusion but part of a phased rollout that began with eight states that met eligibility criteria during the initial selection process dating back to 2019.

“Permit me to state unequivocally, that the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, has recognized the absolute need to avoid exclusion because one of the agenda is ‘Inclusivity,” the Ministry said.

According to the Ministry, Phase 2 of the SAPZ programme has already begun, with 27 states expressing interest. Out of these, 10 met all eligibility requirements including Gombe, Borno, and Bauchi from the North-East. These three will be part of the first tranche in the new rollout phase, with more opportunities available as additional tranches follow.

The Ministry urged the remaining North-East states Taraba, Yobe, and Adamawa to expedite their compliance with programme requirements to benefit from subsequent tranches of Phase 2.

The statement concluded with a strong assurance that the SAPZ and other major agricultural programs including the Green Imperative Project, which will establish Agricultural Mechanization Service Centres across Nigeria’s 774 LGAs are designed to deliver equal value to every region.

“We will continue to listen; and we’ve heard the statements of the representatives of the North East and we assure you all that the SAPZ Program is for all Nigerians and each and every State of the Federation will be brought on board,” the Ministry reaffirmed.

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