Nigeria has secured renewed funding commitment from the African Development Bank (AfDB) for the second phase of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ), aimed at expanding from eight states and the FCT to 24 states.

Vice President Kashim Shettima made the request during a meeting with AfDB President, Dr. Sidi Ould Tah, on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York. He said Nigeria, as AfDB’s largest shareholder, deserves stronger support to diversify its economy, citing the country’s fertile agro-ecological zones and resourceful youth population.

The Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Lawal, sought AfDB’s backing for the Great Green Wall Project and clean cooking policy, while the Minister of Housing, Alhaji Ahmed Dangiwa, called for support to address Nigeria’s housing deficit.

AfDB President Tah pledged more support, outlining priorities of attracting large-scale investments, reforming Africa’s financial architecture, harnessing demographic dividends, and industrialising the continent.

Strengthening Africa-Caribbean Ties

Vice President Shettima also met with St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister, Dr. Terrance Drew, where both leaders agreed to deepen economic and cultural ties. Shettima conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to rekindling Africa-Caribbean relations, stressing shared heritage and Commonwealth membership.

Prime Minister Drew welcomed the renewed engagement, noting the need to boost trade and cooperation between Africa and the Caribbean.