The Federal Ministry of Environment, in partnership with the Kogi State government, recently convened a significant meeting to discuss the proposed Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) project in Ajaokuta, Kogi State.
Representatives from the Federal Ministry of Environment, Kogi State government, and other key stakeholders gathered to review the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report for the project.
The Honorable Minister of Environment, Alhaji Balarabe Abass Lawal, represented by Mrs. Donna Aimiuwu, commended the project proponents for their dedication to aligning with sustainable development goals, such as reducing hunger, promoting good health, and creating job opportunities. However, she emphasized the importance of prioritizing environmental safety and protecting local communities.
The project’s objectives include establishing agro-industrial hubs, improving farming practices, and providing essential social amenities like hospitals, sanitation facilities, and clean water access. Additionally, it will incorporate specialized units for rice processing, palm fruit processing, and beniseed processing.
During the meeting, the consultant, Dr. Oliver Nwuju, delivered a detailed technical overview and presented the EIA report. He highlighted the project’s numerous benefits, including enhanced rural development, job creation, post-harvest loss reduction, and livelihood sustainability.
The project is expected to span 48 months. This gathering provided stakeholders with the opportunity to thoroughly examine the EIA report and offer crucial feedback necessary for the project’s success.
In his address, Kogi State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Timothy Ojomah, emphasized that Agro Processing Zone II is a flagship initiative aimed at enhancing agricultural production, processing, and export while ensuring effective implementation.
In his remarks, Kogi State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Timothy Ojomah, highlighted that Agro Processing Zone II is a flagship initiative designed to boost agricultural production, processing, and export while ensuring implementation occurs in an environmentally responsible manner.
He called on stakeholders to remain steadfast in their commitment to environmental sustainability, stressing that the pursuit of economic development must not compromise the environment.
Mr. Taiwo Joshua, chairman of the panel, acknowledged the Kogi State government for its resilience and determination in bringing the project to fruition, noting that Kogi has a vast landmass that is critical for initiatives focused on food processing and agriculture.
Mr. Joshua affirmed that the panel’s objective is to ensure that the project report is economically viable by the conclusion of the exercise
Key issues addressed during the project’s planning phase include land settlement with landowners through written agreements, environmental safety, sustainability plans, budget and funding, job opportunities, and livelihood sustainability.
The Chairman of the Ajaokuta local government council, Hon.Haruna Aliyu Ogido who was represented by Mr Momoh jimoh Mutari noted that the community eagerly anticipates the project’s commencement.
“We appreciate His Excellency’s commitment to our well-being and look forward to the project’s positive impact on our community,” the representative stated
Salawu Patience Nneka,
Information Officer,
Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.
