The Federal Government has obtained an increased funding pledge from the African Development Bank (AfDB) to launch the second phase of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) project. Vice President Kashim Shettima disclosed the agreement on Monday via his official X handle after a bilateral meeting with AfDB President Dr. Sidi Tah on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York. Shettima explained that Phase 2 will deliver climate-resilient infrastructure and inclusive agro-industrial hubs across 24 additional states, broadening the programme beyond the eight states and the Federal Capital Territory covered in the pilot phase. The initiative aims to diversify Nigeria’s oil-dependent economy by increasing value-added agricultural exports and strengthening food supply chains. Launched in 2022, the SAPZ programme jointly driven by the AfDB, federal and state governments, and development partners has already created hubs that attract private investment, reduce post-harvest losses, and generate rural jobs.