Minister Hails Kaduna’s Growing Agro-Industrial Investments, Youth Participation
Chukwu Obinna 
KADUNA, Nigeria – The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, has commended Kaduna State’s expanding agro-industrial landscape, describing it as a strong indicator of rising investor confidence and renewed momentum in Nigeria’s agricultural economy.
Kyari gave the assessment on Wednesday during a tour of Olam Agri, Tomato Jos, and the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone, where he observed what he called a productive alignment between federal policy, state initiatives, and private sector innovation.
“It is impressive what we have seen today — from crop production to processing, and now the development of a quality assurance office supported by Afreximbank to certify Nigerian produce for domestic and export markets,” Kyari stated.
The minister noted growing agricultural entrepreneurship among youth and women, highlighting the example of a young female rice mill owner working with women outgrowers as evidence of deepening participation. “There is rising interest in agriculture. The level of involvement from women and young people reflects confidence in the sector,” he said.
Kyari assured stakeholders that the federal government is addressing input cost concerns and will soon replenish strategic grain reserves to stabilise supply and production cycles. He also confirmed that the Economic Management Team is reviewing complaints of smuggled tomato paste undermining Tomato Jos’ sales.
“Smuggling and illegal imports are being addressed to protect local producers,” he said.
On liquid fertiliser, the minister emphasised that its distribution must align with national security protocols. “The government will ensure farmers are supported while maintaining public safety,” he added.
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Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
Oluwafunbi Bello 
Mirian Gom 
Hussaini Ibrahim