Niger State Partners With China To Boost Agricultural Productivity

As part of its plans to increase agricultural production and reduce post-harvest losses, the Niger State Government in north-central Nigeria has partnered with Chinese Special Agro-industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) facilities in Chengdu, Mianyang, and Deyang City, all located in Sichuan Province. This collaboration seeks to acquire advanced knowledge and improve the quality of agricultural products in the state.

 

Speaking to journalists after their recent visit to China, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Abubakar Usman, stated that the initiative is expected to enhance food security, reduce poverty, and improve the livelihoods of Niger State citizens.

 

Usman, who led the delegation to the SAPZ facilities, emphasized that the visit was designed to facilitate knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and investment opportunities.

 

According to him, “By learning from China’s successful experiences in agro-industrial processing, we can enhance our capabilities as a state, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth.

 

“This visit also presents an opportunity for us, as a government, to agree on terms of engagement for the already established Niger State Special Agro-industrial Processing Zone Corridor.”

 

The SSG further explained that the corridor has the potential to attract significant investments, promote agricultural development, and increase Niger State’s competitiveness in the global market.

 

He added, “In the long run, this partnership can contribute to the state’s economic growth by enhancing agricultural productivity, adopting modern agro-industrial processing technologies, reducing post-harvest losses, and improving the quality of agricultural products.”

 

Speaking on attracting investments, the Commissioner for Industry, Trade, and Investment, Aminu Suleiman Takuma, highlighted the economic benefits of the visit.

 

“The visit can attract Chinese investments into Niger State’s agro-industrial sector, thereby creating jobs and stimulating economic growth,” he said.

 

Takuma further explained the government’s commitment to promoting economic diversification.

 

He said, “As part of plans to reduce dependency on oil revenues, we are developing the agro-industrial sector to promote economic diversification and increase resilience to external shocks.

 

“That way, we can improve food security by increasing agricultural productivity and enhancing food processing capabilities.

 

“I assure you, Niger State can enhance food security, reduce poverty, and improve the livelihoods of its citizens.”

 

This collaboration with China underscores Niger State’s commitment to agricultural transformation and economic development through innovation and strategic partnerships.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oyenike Oyeniyi