Export processing centre to open in Jigawa State

The National Export Processing Council (NEPC) is advancing plans for the establishment of an Export Processing Center in Jigawa State, revealed NEPC Director-General, Mrs. Nonye Ayeni, during a courtesy visit to Governor Umar Namadi at the Government House in Dutse. Mrs. Ayeni underscored President Bola Ahmad Tinubu’s dedication to Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly focusing on agriculture and the diversification of the non-oil economy.

Commending Governor Namadi for Jigawa State’s notable achievements in hibiscus, sesame, and gum arabic farming, Mrs. Ayeni highlighted the state’s leading position in cash crop production nationwide. She briefed Governor Namadi on NEPC’s strategy to establish an Export Processing Center in Jigawa, aligning with President Tinubu’s economic vision.

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Emphasizing the longstanding collaboration between NEPC and the Jigawa State Government, Mrs. Ayeni cited the commissioning of the COMTTRAJIGAWA Hibiscus processing company as a testament to their partnership. She outlined NEPC’s plans to bolster production capacity, enhance services, and provide training to farmers and stakeholders across the agricultural value chain. Additionally, Mrs. Ayeni disclosed intentions to supply seedlings, offer certifications, and improve processing facilities through the establishment of laboratories at COMTTRAJIGAWA.

In response, Governor Namadi commended NEPC and its delegation for their visit to Jigawa State, acknowledging the significance of their efforts. He briefed Mrs. Ayeni on his administration’s initiatives, including the registration of all state members of farmers’ associations in a comprehensive database to facilitate the distribution of farm implements and enhance agricultural practices.

Governor Namadi emphasized Jigawa State’s openness to investors, particularly those interested in the agro-processing sector, highlighting opportunities at the Maigatari Export Processing Zone. He revealed plans to recruit 1,444 extension workers to support farmers and boost agricultural production across the state.