​The African Development Bank (AfDB) is mobilizing $2.2 billion to develop agricultural processing zones across 28 Nigerian states, aiming to enhance food security and create employment opportunities. AfDB President Akinwumi Adesina announced this initiative during the launch of its first phase in Kaduna State, targeting five states with an initial funding of over $500 million pledged in 2022. The proposal for the second phase of funding will soon be presented to the AfDB board for approval.

The project has garnered support from various institutions, including the Arab Bank for Economic Development, Africa Import-Export Bank, agri-investment fintech Sahara Farms, and several French and U.S. organizations. These agro-processing zones are designed to bring processing facilities closer to farmers, thereby reducing post-harvest losses and strengthening agricultural value chains. ​

In 2024, Nigeria imported $4.7 billion worth of food, a trend the government aims to reverse through increased investment in agriculture. The development of these processing zones is a strategic move to bolster domestic food production and reduce reliance on imports. ​

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African Development Bank seeks $2.2 billion to support Nigeria’s agriculture