By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
In a move to increase beef and dairy produce in Abuja, the FCT Special Agro- Industrial Processing Zone Project, SAPZ on Wednesday distributed agricultural inputs to 5,000 beneficiaries at Gwagwalada.
The FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, who flagged – off the distribution of Agricultural inputs to SAPZ project beneficiaries said that the implementation of the project
in the nation’s capital is targeted at empowering approximately 50,000 direct and indirect jobs, with significant focus on 40% women beneficiaries, aimed at transforming the agricultural landscape of the Federal Capital Territory.
Mahmoud represented by the Mandate Secretary, Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, Lawan Kolo Geidam stated that agriculture remains the backbone of the economy providing livelihoods for millions of people while ensuring food security for the nation.
“We are optimistic that the agricultural inputs being distributed today, comprising Bull Calves, Animal Feeds, Crop Seeds, Fertilizers, and Crop Protection Chemicals and Equipment, will serve as a vital catalyst for building a more resilient and sustainable agricultural sector,” she added.
The FCT Coordinator, SAPZ programme, Kabiru Yusuf said that the distribution of the agro inputs
program is aimed at increasing livestock productivity in the FCT.
He said, ” The programme is to enhance productivity and support value addition from processing to finished goods. For the FCT specifically, it’s dairy to yoghurt, gee, cheese, and butter.”
He noted, “agricultural inputs are not only about providing equipment for planting the seeds, but also about equipping our farmers with the tools they need to increase productivity improve quality, and enhance competitiveness in both local and international markets.”
The Mandate Secretary, ARDS, Lawan Kolo Geidam, represented by the Permanent Secretary, ARDS, Grace Adayilo said that the SAPZ programme which is facilitated
are crucial in providing vital support to farmers to help them navigate these challenging times.
“As you are aware, the FCT Administration formally joined this project, facilitated by the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), in 2024.”
“SAPZ is an initiative that seeks to unlock the immense potential of the livestock subsector in the Federal Capital Territory by providing critical financing and support to drive the growth, productivity, and sustainability of the sector”, she added.
Geidam said, ” We will be distributing assorted agricultural inputs, including bull calves, fertilizers, animal feeds, agro-chemicals, and more to support their endeavours and improve their overall economic well-being.”
He disclosed that the 5,000 beneficiaries have been profiled and trained for the intervention.
