The Kogi State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigeria Export-Import (NEXIM) Bank to develop export-oriented agro-allied investments in the state. The partnership aims to establish projects such as a shea butter processing factory, mechanized cassava farms, and other agro-allied industries to enhance economic growth and expand export opportunities.

The signing ceremony took place at NEXIM Bank’s head office in Abuja, with the Kogi State delegation led by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. (Mrs.) Ayoade Folashade Arike. Other members of the delegation included the Chief Economic Adviser to the Governor and Managing Director of the Kogi State Investment Promotion Agency, Hon. Nda Aliyu Salami, Commissioner for Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning, Mukadam Asiru Asiwaju, Auditor General Alhaji Yakubu Yusuf Okala, and Special Adviser on Youth Empowerment, Hon. Abdulkareem Onyekehi Suleiman.

Dr. Ayoade emphasized the state government’s commitment to leveraging its rich agricultural resources to drive economic development. She highlighted the potential of agro-allied industries, such as shea butter and cassava processing, to create jobs, empower local farmers, and generate foreign exchange earnings for the state.

The collaboration with NEXIM Bank aligns with Kogi State’s broader agenda to diversify its economy and attract private-sector investments. Hon. Nda Aliyu Salami described the partnership as a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to establish itself as a hub for agro-allied exports in Nigeria.

Officials from NEXIM Bank reiterated their dedication to supporting state-level initiatives aimed at boosting Nigeria’s non-oil exports. The bank expressed confidence in Kogi State’s capacity to implement these projects successfully, given its strategic location and abundant agricultural resources.