As part of efforts to actualize the New Niger agenda, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has extended a bold invitation to international investors to develop agro-processing industries in Rabah, a community in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State.
On July 16, 2025, the state’s Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Aminu Takuma, led a delegation of Chinese investors to Rabba for a strategic site inspection. The visit, aimed at assessing the area’s potential for agro-industrial development, began with a courtesy call on the Ndashi of Rabah, Engr. Umaru Tswako.
During the meeting with traditional leaders and elders, Takuma conveyed Governor Bago’s commitment to transforming Rabah into a flagship hub for agro-processing under the Special Agro-Processing Zone (SAPZ) initiative. He emphasised the government’s readiness to provide enabling infrastructure and policy support to attract investment and promote rural industrialisation.
“Governor Bago is determined to make Rabba a model for agribusiness and rural transformation. We are here not just to inspect, but to partner with the community for long-term development,” Takuma said.
The Commissioner was joined by Mr. Yomi, Chairman of Niger State’s SAPZ program, and Hon. Zakariyau Rabba, Deputy Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.
Takuma outlined the numerous benefits the community stands to gain, including reliable electricity, modern road networks, job creation, and inclusive economic growth. He urged traditional leaders to embrace the initiative and mobilize local support.
Responding on behalf of the Rabba community, the Ndashi of Rabba pledged full support for the project and appointed community representatives to accompany the inspection team. The group visited several key locations, including fertile farmlands, waterfronts along the River Niger, and defunct agro-industrial sites formerly operated by Sunflag Agro Nigeria Limited.
The Chinese investors expressed satisfaction with the tour, citing the community’s vast arable land and proximity to water as significant advantages for agro-industrial ventures. They affirmed their interest and pledged to commence operations once regulatory processes are finalized.
The visit marks another milestone in Niger State’s drive to attract foreign investment and fast-track rural industrialization in line with the Bago administration’s development blueprint.
