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SAPZ Nigeria Receives Additional $1bn Funding Support

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SAPZ Programme

By Adedapo Adesanya

The African Development Bank (AfDB), Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) have voted for an extra $1 billion to further deliver special agro-industrial processing zones (SAPZs) in 24 states in Nigeria.

This is in addition to an initial $520 million voted by the development partners for the development of eight special agro-industrial processing zones in Nigeria.

According to a statement signed by Mr Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications in the Office of the Vice President, the new funding support was disclosed by the AfDB President, Mr Akinwumi Adesina, at the Norman Borlaug International Dialogue, World Food Prize 2023, in Des Moines, Iowa, United States of America.

“We are investing heavily in the development of  SAPZs to support the development of agricultural value chains, food processing and value addition, enabling infrastructure and logistics to promote local, regional, and international trade in food.

“The African Development Bank Group is investing $853 million in the development of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones, and it has mobilized additional co-financing of $661 million, for a total commitment of $1.5 billion. We are deploying effective partnerships at scale. We are currently implementing 25 Special Agro-industrial Processing Zones in 13 countries.

“For example, the African Development Bank, Islamic Development Bank, and the International Fund for Agricultural Development provided $520 million for the development of 8 special agro-industrial processing zones in Nigeria. The second phase of the program aims to mobilize an additional $1 billion to deliver special agro-industrial processing zones in 24 States of Nigeria,” he said while delivering his speech titled From Dakar to Des Moines.

Mr Adesina noted that the decision to pump such huge funds into Nigeria’s agribusiness was part of the resolve to develop Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZs) in 13 countries.

He, however, regretted that while much progress had “been made in African agriculture, 283 million people still go to bed hungry in Africa, about a third of the 828 million people that suffer hunger globally.”

The AfDB chief, however, described the Norman Borlaug International Dialogue World Food Prize 2023, as a “journey and narrative  of how we are combining the power of science, technology,  policies, and politics to ensure that Africa fully unlocks its agricultural potential, and feeds itself, with pride.”

Vice President Kashim Shettima, who is attending the event in pursuance of the food security and diversification policy of the Tinubu administration, had on Wednesday delivered his keynote address at the ongoing dialogue.

The AfDB President thanked the Nigerian Vice President and the President of Ethiopia, Mrs Sahle-Work Zewde, for participating in the global event, saying their presence is an indication “that Africa has the political will and is fully ready to tackle food insecurity and make hunger history” on the continent.

Adedapo Adesanya is a journalist, polymath, and connoisseur of everything art. When he is not writing, he has his nose buried in one of the many books or articles he has bookmarked or simply listening to good music with a bottle of beer or wine. He supports the greatest club in the world, Manchester United F.C.

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FG Calls for Alternative Energy Sources to Drive Nigeria’s Maritime Industry

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Adegboyega Oyetola

By Adedapo Adesanya

The federal government has called for the adoption of alternative energy sources in the maritime industry to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, warning that Africa could face severe economic impacts if left behind in the global transition.

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, made this call in Abuja while declaring open the African Strategic Summit on Shipping Decarbonization.

He cautioned that the ongoing shift to low-emission shipping fuels could increase transport costs for Africa, disproportionately affecting developing nations.

“With over 90 per cent of global trade relying on maritime transport, reducing GHG emissions is not just an environmental necessity but an economic imperative,” Mr Oyetola stated.

He stressed the need for Africa to have a strong voice in shaping global policies. “As the IMO advances its regulatory framework on decarbonization, Africa must ensure its interests are safeguarded, as we rely heavily on imports and contribute less than 2 per cent to the global fleet,” he said.

Highlighting the potential benefits of the transition, Mr Oyetola urged African nations to leverage the shift towards cleaner energy to boost industrialization.

“With 38 coastal nations, Africa can use this transition to develop its ports as launch pads for economic growth by engaging the Global North in strategic partnerships,” he added.

The Minister emphasized the need for a just and equitable transition, ensuring that no African nation is left behind.

“While we recognize the urgency of climate action, developing economies face challenges such as limited access to technology, energy poverty, and food insecurity. The principle of common but differentiated responsibilities must guide our approach,” he said.

Also, Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Mr Dayo Mobereola, reinforced the urgency of decarbonization.

“The shipping industry contributes about 3 per cent of global emissions. This summit is a platform for Africa to shape a strategy that ensures sustainable maritime development without being disadvantaged,” he noted.

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JUST IN: Ayobo-Ipaja LCDA Chairman Bolatito Shobowale Dies

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bolatito shobowale Ayobo-Ipaja LCDA

By Dipo Olowookere

The Chairman of Ayobo-Ipaja Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Mrs Bolatito Shobowale, has died, Business Post has confirmed.

She passed away on Friday after a prolonged battle with illness and three days after her deputy, Mr Ladi Oluwaloni, was asked to become the acting chairman of the council due to her long absence from work.

Mrs Shobowale had been away from her office for about six months, preventing the presentation of the 2025 budget to the council lawmakers for approval.

There had been underground grumbling within the LCDA until Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu stepped in and approved the appointment of Mr Oluwaloni as the acting chairman.

Recent council activities had been carried out without the deceased, including the welcoming of the Governor Advisory Council (GAC) led by Mr Femi Pedro and the presentation of work tools to some residents who completed an empowerment programme sponsored by the state government.

Reacting to the death of Mrs Shobowale, the chairman of Alimosho Local Government Area, Mr Jelili Sulaimon, said she would be missed.

Mr Sulaimon, in a statement signed by his media aide, Mr Babatunde Yusuf, described the deceased, fondly called Mama Show, as a mother to all and a good administrator who is ever willing to see Ayobo-Ipaja LCDA progress positively.

According to him, Mrs Shobowale, elected into office in 2021, committed herself to the growth and development of council until her death.

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Expert Guidance And Legal Support: How Legallypass Simplifies Citizenship Applications

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Legallypass

Legallypass is a legal advisory firm that treats citizenship applications as a strategic process rather than just paperwork, recognizing that every detail can influence the outcome. As global mobility becomes a priority for many, the demand for second passports is rising. Yet, despite this growing interest, obtaining citizenship is rarely straightforward – each country has its own legal intricacies, shifting policies, and procedural hurdles that can complicate the process.

Those exploring Legallypass reviews are often looking for more than just guidance; they want solutions that anticipate challenges and prevent costly delays.Therefore, we encourage you to find out whether it is possible to get such help by cooperating with this migration company.

Why legal support matters in citizenship applications

Many assume that following official instructions is enough to secure approval, but Eurostat statistics tell a different story. For example, in Germany, around 30% of citizenship requests were denied in recent years due to insufficient language skills, lack of financial stability, or incomplete paperwork. In France, the rejection rate fluctuates between 10-15%, with many cases failing due to missing documents or failure to demonstrate sufficient integration into society.

This highlights a critical issue – EU citizenship applications are often more than just formalities. Each country has its own evolving criteria, and even minor mistakes can lead to delays or outright denial of documents. This is howLegallypass reviews showhow professional help can make the difference between approval and rejection.

Handling complex cases: How Legallypass helps where clients struggle

Legallypass provides structured assistance for cases that demand extra attention, ensuring clients meet official criteria without unnecessary delays. Below are some of the key services available for applicants facing procedural or legal complexities:

  • Assistance with retrieving documents for repatriation – researching archival records to confirm ancestral ties and provide legally recognized proof of heritage.
  • Legal representation for document submission – a company lawyer can either accompany the client to immigration offices or submit the paperwork on their behalf under a power of attorney.
  • Certified translation and notarization services – preparing official documents in the required language and verifying authenticity through notarization.
  • Support in obtaining internal documents – helping clients secure identification such as an internationally recognized driver’s license, if they already hold a valid permit.

Legallypass reviews often highlight the firm’s role in resolving non-standard cases where conventional approaches may not be sufficient.

Legallypass citizenship applications

Legallypass reviews: What clients say about their experience

Legallypass reviews frequently mention how the company structures the citizenship application process to minimize confusion. Many clients highlight clear communication, noting that responses are timely and provide concrete steps rather than generic advice. Others appreciate the transparency in pricing, as unexpected fees can be a common concern in the industry.

Another key theme in Legallypass reviews is the firm’s adaptability. Some applicants faced sudden document requests or shifting policies but found that the company quickly adjusted their application strategy to meet new requirements.

Beyond efficiency, Legallypass reviews also emphasize the value of delegating administrative work. Clients describe how legal representatives handle official submissions, reducing their need for direct involvement. While every citizenship application is unique, the consistent feedback suggests that professional support eases the process, especially when complications arise.

Ultimately, the Legallypass reviews suggest that clients value not just the final result. Most often, the emphasis is onhow the firm overcomes challenges along the way.

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