The Gombe State Government has announced plans to establish a 184-hectare agro-industrial hub aimed at harnessing the agricultural potential to enhance food security and drive economic development in the state.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya stated this on Thursday in Gombe, in a state broadcast to mark the sixth-year anniversary of his administration.

He said the proposed hub would feature an international grain and livestock market and a state-of-the-art commercial abattoir.

He noted, “This visionary project will elevate Gombe beyond a regional leader and establish it as northern Nigeria’s agribusiness and trade powerhouse, thereby creating boundless economic opportunities for the people.’’

According to Mr Yahaya, his administration is keen on ensuring sustainable industrialisation of the state to make it an industrial hub in the North-East region.

He said the state government expended N24 billion on the development of a 1,000-hectre Muhammadu Buhari Industrial Park in the past three years.

The governor highlighted that the state would witness tremendous agricultural transformation with the upcoming agro-industrial hub and its inclusion in the Special Agro-Processing Zone (SAPZ) initiative.

He stated, “These efforts will not only bolster food security but also transform the lives of millions of our people by creating jobs, increasing productivity, and fostering sustainable economic growth. Agriculture is the bedrock of our economy and a source of livelihoods for most of our people. Over the past six years, our administration has prioritised farmer and herder support through the consistent and timely distribution of fertilisers, farm inputs, animal vaccination campaigns and conflict mitigation.’’

Mr Yahaya reiterated his administration’s commitment to addressing agriculture-related challenges to encourage  productivity and boost food security through research.

He said it was in that light that a Faculty of Agricultural Sciences was established in Kwami to address issues relating to crop varieties, livestock breeds, and other agricultural technologies that increase yields and overall productivity.

The governor also highlighted key achievements in road infrastructure and rural road initiatives towards addressing post-harvest losses, as well as developing agriculture to harness the potential in the sector for prosperity.

He added, “In the coming two years, we will intensify our efforts to solidify Gombe’s strategic advantages in commerce, agriculture, and renewable energy.’’ 

(NAN)