The Kwara State Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) Project has commenced a sensitization campaign to engage community stakeholders across the state on the objectives and impact of the initiative.
The State Project Coordinator, Engr. Dr. Busari Toyin Isiaka, disclosed this during a stakeholder sensitization programme held in Okuta, Baruteen Local Government Area on February 3rd. The SAPZ project aims to boost agricultural productivity through rural industrialization, fostering wealth creation and poverty reduction in Kwara State.
Dr. Isiaka, represented by the Livestock Specialist of the SAPZ project, Mr. Abdulfatah Lekan Ambali, outlined the involvement of various stakeholders, including traditional rulers, local government officials, farmers, and representatives from non-governmental organizations. He emphasized that the sensitization exercise, which began in Okuta, would also feature a workshop on climate-smart agricultural technology for Women’s Agricultural Cooperatives and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) starting February 4th.
Speaking on the project’s significance, Mr. Ambali reiterated that the SAPZ initiative, championed by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, is designed to attract investments in food production and processing. He urged the grassroots community to support and embrace the project for successful implementation.
Highlighting the programme’s benefits, Engr. Busari noted that the initiative would promote agricultural industrialization, enhance food security, and drive economic diversification. He encouraged farmers to take full advantage of the opportunities presented by the SAPZ programme.
Expressing appreciation for the government’s efforts, the Emir of Okuta and Chairman of the Baruteen Local Government Traditional Council, Dr. (Alhaji) Idris Abubakar Serobetete II, welcomed the initiative. He emphasized that Baruteen, being predominantly a farming community, stands to benefit immensely from the project.
“We are delighted that Baruteen is among the host local governments for this project. Our people are eager to participate, and we assure you that Baruteen will be at the forefront. Our contribution to livestock and crop farming reinforces Kwara’s role as a food basket in Nigeria. If this project succeeds, it will redefine the agricultural landscape of the state,” the Emir stated.
Similarly, the Chairman of Baruteen Local Government Council, Alhaji Jubri Issa, represented by the Head of Agriculture, Dr. Abdulkareem Abdullahi, pledged the council’s commitment to supporting the project.
Local farmers, including Mr. Musa Aliu Sheu and Mrs. Zainab Ahmed Baba, expressed their excitement over their inclusion in the programme, stating that it would boost their morale and increase productivity.
The sensitization event, aimed at bringing the SAPZ project’s objectives closer to the grassroots, was attended by traditional rulers from various Baruteen communities, representatives from non-governmental organizations, and farmers’ associations.
