The Federal Government has selected Ekiti State to participate in the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) Phase Two Programme, a major initiative supported by the African Development Bank (AfDB).
The notification, conveyed through the SAPZ National Coordination Office, affirmed the Federal Government’s recognition of Ekiti State’s commitment to agricultural transformation, industrialisation, economic diversification, and job creation, adding that processes required to operationalise the programme are being finalised.
Reacting to the development, the Ekiti State Government described the selection as a significant milestone and a strong endorsement of the Oyebanji Administration’s agriculture-led industrial growth agenda. The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr Olatunbosun, said Ekiti’s inclusion in SAPZ Phase Two reflects sustained efforts to reposition agriculture as a key driver of industrialisation, employment generation, and sustainable economic growth.
“This programme will significantly enhance value addition, attract private sector investment, and improve livelihoods across Ekiti State,” Olatunbosun said.
He explained that the benefits of the SAPZ Programme would be far-reaching, with thousands of jobs expected for young people, particularly in agro-processing and related industries. He added that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) would gain from stronger value chains and improved access to new markets, supporting growth and economic contribution.
“This initiative is not just about agriculture; it is about empowering our people, especially our youth and SMEs, to build sustainable livelihoods, improve food security, and drive Ekiti’s economic future,” he stated.
Olatunbosun assured that the state government is fully prepared for timely and effective implementation. He said steps include execution of Subsidiary Loan Agreements, establishment of a State Implementation Unit, and compliance with environmental and social safeguards, including compensation of Project Affected Persons at the Agro-Industrial Hub in Itapaji.
He mentioned the opening of dedicated project accounts and preparation of procurement plans and annual work programmes to guide execution and monitoring across project locations within the state during the rollout period.
The Commissioner disclosed that the SAPZ National Coordination Office plans to organise an onboarding workshop to provide technical guidance to participating states ahead of full implementation.
He reaffirmed Ekiti State’s readiness to work with the Federal Government, development partners, relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies, and the private sector to deliver SAPZ Phase Two. He added that the programme aligns with the state’s vision of enhancing food security, strengthening agricultural value chains, and creating sustainable economic opportunities, while driving inclusive growth and long-term prosperity. He said the government views the programme as a platform to deepen collaboration, unlock private capital, expand processing capacity, and improve competitiveness of local agricultural products in regional and international markets sustainably.
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