News in brief:
– CSS Global Integrated Farms inaugurated a modern soybean refinery in Nasarawa State, attracting dignitaries who highlighted its impact on reducing imports and boosting Nigeria’s agricultural value chain.
– The project underscores the importance of private-sector initiatives and bold policies to enhance food security and economic growth.
CSS Global Integrated Farms has inaugurated an ultra-modern soybean refinery in Gora, Karu Local Council of Nasarawa State, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
The event attracted key dignitaries, including African Development Bank (AfDB) President Akinwumi Adesina, who emphasised the importance of reducing Nigeria’s crude soybean oil imports, which amounted to $62.2 million in 2023.
Adesina revealed that the AfDB plans to finance the second phase of its Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) programme with $1 billion, covering 28 states, including Nasarawa. He highlighted the success of the $538 million SAPZ initiative currently being implemented in seven states, adding that CSS Farms would serve as a key anchor investor in the proposed expansion.
“Nigeria should have bold programmes and policy support for its farmers, including incentives to support agricultural value chains from production to processing and market supply,” he stated.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan, who also attended the inauguration, called for greater support for agro-investors to enhance food security. Reflecting on his administration’s efforts during the 2012 floods, he commended CSS Farms’ founder, Prof. Kennedy Opara, for his commitment to agricultural innovation. Jonathan underscored the importance of collective investment in Nigeria’s development, urging citizens to contribute to nation-building rather than seeking opportunities abroad.
Former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma lauded the refinery’s launch as a step toward addressing Africa’s food security challenges. He noted that with 60% of the continent’s arable land, Africa has the potential to feed itself and the world.
Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule, represented by his deputy, Dr Emmanuel Akabe, congratulated CSS Farms and pledged the state’s support for investors. Similarly, Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri urged Nigerians to embrace mechanised agriculture as a viable alternative to migration, emphasising the potential of agro-business to drive job creation and national development.
The refinery’s inauguration underscores the critical role of private sector initiatives in bolstering Nigeria’s agricultural value chain and enhancing economic opportunities nationwide.
