A delegation of 25 Chinese investors has begun exploring over $700 million worth of agricultural and renewable energy projects in Katsina State.
Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC), A’isha Rimi, disclosed this on Monday after an inspection visit. She was represented by the Director of Strategic Services, Abubakar Yerima.
Rimi said the delegation, led by China Overseas Engineering Group (COVEC), is considering projects across the full agricultural value chain, including rice, maize, cassava, fisheries, and a 10,000-head cattle ranch. Other proposals include agricultural machinery assembly plants, solar power facilities, and leather processing factories.
According to her, the investors have already committed $200 million in Niger State, which later expanded to $720 million. Similar projects valued at $620 million and $500 million were announced in Jigawa and Oyo states, respectively.
In Katsina, plans under review include 2,500 hectares at Sabke Dam for maize cultivation, Dabiram Dam with 380 hectares for fisheries, an agricultural research institute for livestock breeding, a goat breeding centre in Rimi Local Government, and an agricultural commodities commercial hub in Mai’adua.
Rimi added that the projects would require about 4,000 hectares of land, with an initial commitment of $150 million. She commended the Katsina State Investment Promotion Agency for its proactive role in preparing and engaging the investors.
