The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has committed to reducing post-harvest losses in Nigeria’s agricultural sector by 25% as part of its broader strategy to ensure food security and boost local production.
This pledge was made during the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) High-Level Implementation Acceleration Dialogue, held in Abuja on Monday.
The SAPZ initiative, supported by the African Development Bank, International Fund for Agricultural Development, and Islamic Development Bank, is a government programme designed to enhance agriculture through strategic investments, integrating farming, processing, and marketing to increase productivity, reduce post-harvest losses, and improve value addition. The initiative also aims to promote food security, create jobs, and reduce poverty.
In his keynote address, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, stressed the importance of a collaborative approach to overcoming the challenges in the sector. “Our goal is clear: we must improve our production capacities and reduce post-harvest losses from the current 45% to 20%. This is essential not only for food security but also for improving the livelihoods of our farmers,” Kyari said.
Kyari outlined the focus of the SAPZ programme, which targets the development of agro-industrial processing zones in seven states and the Federal Capital Territory, concentrating on key crops such as cassava, rice, maize, and cocoa.
The programme is expected to create approximately 500,000 direct and indirect jobs, while increasing Nigeria’s food production.
Finance Minister Wale Edun also addressed the gathering, highlighting the critical role of agriculture in the country’s economic stability. “Successful food production is fundamental to our economy.
When we meet our production targets, it will positively affect inflation, interest rates, and our trade balance,” Edun stated. He underscored the importance of federal, state, and private sector collaboration to ensure the SAPZ initiative’s success.
The Country Director of the African Development Bank, Abdul Kamara, noted that reducing post-harvest losses to between 10% and 20% could significantly boost the economy and improve food security.
Kamara urged all stakeholders to work together to address the challenges hindering the programme’s implementation.
During the workshop, Dr. Abdulkazumare, representing the Governor of Kaduna State, emphasized the need for innovative solutions and adapting successful global models to Nigeria’s local context.
Minister Kyari expressed optimism about the outcomes of the SAPZ initiative, calling it a cornerstone of Nigeria’s agricultural transformation and economic growth. “Moving forward requires not only commitment but also effective communication to gain public support. Together, we can build a resilient agricultural sector that meets the needs of all Nigerians,” Kyari said.
The Country Director of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), Dede Ekoue, praised the initiative and acknowledged the leadership of both the Agriculture and Finance Ministers.
Ekoue highlighted ongoing efforts in Kano State, where IFAD is supporting a pilot project aimed at enhancing rice and tomato farming. He also stressed the importance of partnerships in driving the success of the SAPZ programme.
Ekoue concluded by expressing confidence in the initiative, saying, “This strategic gathering empowers stakeholders to accelerate SAPZ implementation at this critical time for food security and inclusive economic growth.”
