The Ekiti State Government has announced that operations of the Special Agro Processing Zone will commence very soon, as part of efforts to deepen agricultural industrialization and expand economic opportunities across the state in 2026.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji made this known during his 2026 New Year State Broadcast, where he said preparations for the zone are already in place and aligned with the administration’s broader development agenda in Ekiti State.
According to the governor, the Special Agro Processing Zone is designed to strengthen agricultural value chains by supporting the processing of farm produce within the state, rather than exporting raw materials outside Ekiti.
“Our vision for the actualization of Ekiti Knowledge Zone is already on track as infrastructural development has commenced. The Special Agro Processing Zone would also take off very soon,” Oyebanji said.
He explained that the zone is expected to support farmers, agro processors, and investors by providing an enabling environment for large scale processing, storage, and distribution of agricultural products.
Oyebanji noted that the project will complement existing agricultural programmes and infrastructure initiatives already underway across the state, especially those aimed at improving rural access and youth participation in agriculture.
The governor said the commencement of operations at the zone would help reduce post harvest losses, increase farmers’ earnings, and create jobs in processing, logistics, packaging, and allied services.
He added that the Special Agro Processing Zone is part of the government’s strategy to move Ekiti from subsistence farming to a more business driven agricultural system.
Oyebanji stressed that agriculture remains central to the state’s economic growth plan, adding that value addition and processing are key to sustaining food availability and stabilizing prices.
He assured residents that the government will continue to work with relevant partners to ensure the zone operates efficiently and delivers tangible benefits to the people.
The governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to policies that encourage private sector participation, investment attraction, and inclusive economic growth.
He said the initiative aligns with long term development goals statewide.
