Zamfara State in Nigeria signs MoU to back large scale mechanised farming

NIGERIA – Zamfara State in north western Nigeria has taken a fresh step to support large scale mechanised farming after Governor Dauda Lawal signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Finance Incorporated.

The agreement took place at the Africa Investment Forum Market Days 2025, which ran from 26 to 28 November 2025 in Rabat, Morocco. The deal focuses on expanding agricultural production and modern farming systems across Zamfara State and the wider region.

Governor Lawal’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said the forum brought together African investors, supported deal talks, and helped move investments forward across the continent. He said the African Development Bank organised the forum with six founding partners to support project financing across Africa.

At the event, Governor Lawal joined discussions on private investment, public private partnerships, and ways to raise local capital to support economic growth in Nigeria and other African countries.

Idris said the MoU places Zamfara among the key beneficiaries of the Integranium Agricultural Transformation Initiative, a national programme that supports mechanised farming, agro processing, post harvest systems, and access to global markets.

“The agreement positions Zamfara State as a key beneficiary of the Integranium Agricultural Transformation Initiative, a national programme focusing on mechanised farming, agro processing, post harvest systems, and global market access,” Idris said.

Under the terms of the MoU, the Zamfara State Government will provide land, basic infrastructure, security, and clear policies. MOFI will lead on financing, investor engagement, and project support.

Idris said the partnership will create jobs, improve food supply, strengthen value chains, and support inclusive economic growth in Zamfara State and the wider North West region of Nigeria.

“Under the MoU, Zamfara will provide land, infrastructure, security, and a supportive policy environment, while MOFI takes the lead on financing, investor engagement, and project development support,” he added.

Governor calls for investor interest

During a roundtable session with investors, Governor Lawal described Zamfara as an agricultural hub that continues to record progress across several sectors. He encouraged local and international investors to explore opportunities in the state.

He pointed to key projects that include a planned international cargo airport, a five star hotel currently under construction, and ongoing urban renewal works. He said these projects will support trade, tourism, and farm exports.

“I am glad that the African Development Bank is here with other leading international investors. Agriculture is the way forward for Africa, Nigeria, and especially Zamfara State. We have fertile land and grow a variety of crops. Our advantage is clear. I invite all global investors to Zamfara,” Lawal said.

State officials said the farming agreement links closely with these wider projects, as better transport, housing, and city services will support farm production, processing, and access to markets within Nigeria and beyond.

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