Niger Tasks Private Operators On Agro-processing Zone

Niger State commissioner for Trade, Investment and Private Sector Development, Alhaji Aminu Suleiman Takuma, has urged the private sector to utilise the Special Agro-Processing Zone (SAPZ) to bolster businesses in the state.

He stated this at the 34th annual general meeting (AGM) of the Niger Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NCCIMA), where they elected new officers, with Alhaji Suleiman Abdul Liman emerging as the president.

Speaking at the AGM that took place at the Niger State Trade Fair Complex, Minna, the commissioner, represented by the permanent secretary, Alhaji Hamza Sarki Bello, emphasised the importance of strengthening the partnerships between the ministry and the chamber.

He said the private sector could ” fully take advantage of the Special Agro-Processing Zone (SAPZ) initiative to stimulate agribusiness development, drive industrialisation, and promote inclusive economic growth in the state.”

Alhaji Takuma stressed the need to reconstitute the Baro Port Committee as a strategic step towards boosting trade, expanding market access for entrepreneurs, and enhancing foreign trade missions.

In his valedictory remarks, Dr Bisi Adeniyi, the outgoing president of NCCIMA, commended members for their cooperation during his tenure.

He called on the government to deepen its support for the Chamber by hosting annual trade fairs, promoting investment delegations, and providing critical logistics to ensure the sustainability of the Chamber’s activities and projects.

At the AGM, Alhaji Yahaya Ismaila was elected as the first deputy president, Dr Abdulmalik Ndagi was elected as the second deputy president, and Dr Alhaji Abdulrahman Mahmud Enagi was elected vice president in charge of solid minerals.