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KADUNA, Nigeria - President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, has praised the Kaduna State government for its efforts in promoting agriculture, highlighting that the state is pioneering the launch of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) in Nigeria.
During a recent visit to Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, Adesina acknowledged Governor Uba Sani's dedication to agricultural transformation.
He referenced Kaduna's impressive increase in agricultural funding, which jumped from N1.4 billion to N74 billion, stating that this shift exemplifies not only political will but also significant financial commitment.
He remarked, “You didn't merely place your money where your mouth is – you placed it where your mind and body are.” He added, “Kaduna’s leadership in this initiative embodies not only a vision for food security but also a blueprint for economic growth and inclusive development.”
Adesina hailed the state as a pioneer, saying, “You are the first state in Nigeria to launch the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone. This is indeed a momentous occasion for everyone involved.”
He commended the state’s warm hospitality, quipping, “We not only received hospitality here in Kaduna, but it feels like we also received maternity care – given that your Deputy Governor is a medical practitioner.” He reaffirmed AfDB’s dedication to assisting Kaduna in enhancing school feeding initiatives and connecting them with the new processing zones.
Governor Sani, in his comments, referred to Adesina as “a blessing to Nigeria, Africa, and humanity,” praising the AfDB president for his transformative contributions to agriculture throughout the continent. He emphasized that the establishment of the Agro-Industrial Processing Zone is a critical project for the state and applauded Adesina for his endeavors to advance agriculture in Nigeria and beyond.
