The Federal Capital Territory’s Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) is opening new doors for agribusiness by modernizing the way food is produced, processed, and preserved in Nigeria’s capital region.
Strategically located in Paiko and Karshi, the SAPZ will focus on beef and dairy processing to meet international export standards. According to the project officer, the initiative is designed to support institutions like the Agricultural Development Programme (ADP) while equipping farmers across all six area councils of the FCT with skills to enhance productivity and deliver higher-quality raw materials.
The hub aims to solve critical issues facing food systems, including post-harvest losses and poor preservation techniques, which often drive up food prices. By creating a more sustainable supply chain, the project is expected to ease pressure on smallholder farmers and food entrepreneurs, who are frequently burdened by inefficiencies and rising costs.
So far, 242 farmers have been trained in Integrated Pest Management, a low-cost, environmentally friendly farming method that reduces dependence on chemical inputs. Officials say this approach not only improves food safety but also helps farmers cut expenses and protect the environment.
Community leaders have praised the initiative, highlighting its potential to improve local processing capacity, encourage the development of storage hubs in high-yield farming areas, and attract young people to the agricultural sector through job creation and access to export markets.
Backed by a $575 million investment from the African Development Bank and the International Fund for Agricultural Development, the SAPZ project aligns with Nigeria’s broader goals to fight poverty, strengthen food security, and empower small and medium enterprises throughout the agricultural value chain.
