FIC Report (Benue State) – Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr.Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has commended the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration for signing the $1.1 billion Green Imperative Project (GIP), a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and attracting private-sector investment in Nigeria.
In a press statement issued on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, Governor Alia expressed his excitement over the project, emphasizing that as Nigeria’s “Food Basket,” Benue State stands to benefit significantly from this initiative.
Speaking at the signing ceremony of the GIP’s commercial phase at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Monday, March 17, 2025, Governor Alia assured the federal government of his administration’s full support. He stated, “Benue does not only hold the basket but also the food and its surpluses for the nation.”
Tinubu Administration’s Commitment to Food Security
During the event, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring food security and boosting agricultural productivity. He described the GIP as a critical initiative aimed at addressing food security challenges and driving economic growth while enhancing investor confidence.
He also acknowledged key government officials, including the Ministers of Agriculture, Finance, Justice, and Foreign Affairs, for their contributions to the project’s success.
Brazil Pledges Support for Nigeria’s Agricultural Growth
Brazilian Ambassador to Nigeria, Carlos Garcete, praised President Tinubu for successfully concluding the long-negotiated deal. He highlighted that the GIP would facilitate the importation and local assembly of agricultural equipment, including tractors and spare parts, with Nigerian personnel receiving specialized training to maintain and repair the machinery.
Described as Africa’s largest agricultural project, the Green Imperative Project focuses on sustainable, low-carbon agriculture to enhance food production efficiency in Nigeria.
The $1.1 billion GIP 1 agreement was initially signed in 2018. This was followed by the signing of GIP 2 ($4.3 billion) and JBS ($2.5 billion) in Brazil in 2024 during President Tinubu’s official visit, bringing the total investment in Nigeria’s agricultural sector to approximately $8 billion.
A New Era for Nigerian Agriculture
With the implementation of the Green Imperative Project, Nigeria is set to experience a revolution in mechanized farming, job creation, and increased food production, solidifying its position as a leader in agricultural development across Africa.
Signed
Irene Iveren Onehi
Head of Centre, Federal Information Centre, Makurdi
