BY MUSA IDRIS UMAR, SEPTEMBER 30, 2025 | 08:24 AM

Borno State is positioning agriculture as a major driver of Nigeria’s industrial growth and economic transformation.

This was the central message delivered by Deputy Governor Hon. Umar Usman Kadafur, who represented Governor Babagana Umara Zulum at the Northern Nigeria Investment and Industrialization Summit (MAP-2025) held on Monday at the Ladi Kwali Hall, Sheraton Hotel, Abuja.

Kadafur told investors and policymakers that Borno remains one of Nigeria’s most promising agricultural frontiers with unmatched potential for large-scale investment.

He said the state boasts more than 1.6 million hectares of arable land and abundant irrigation sources, including Lake Chad, River Yedseram, Alau Dam, and numerous seasonal streams.

He added that Borno’s favorable climate supports both rain-fed and dry-season farming, making it ideal for year-round food production and agro-industrial expansion.

Kadafur explained that the state’s agricultural advantage is part of a broader vision anchored on a 25-year development framework and a 10-year strategic transformation plan designed to attract investors.

Beyond agriculture, he said Borno is rich in solid minerals, with over 30 commercially viable deposits including limestone, gypsum, kaolin, potash, trona, quartz, iron ore, tantalite, uranium, and silica sand.

He noted that Borno’s strength lies not only in its natural wealth but also in the resilience of its people, the commitment of its government, and the confidence of its partners.

According to him, the state has embraced public-private partnerships, introduced investor-friendly reforms, strengthened institutions, and built a safe and transparent business environment.

The Governors of Nasarawa and Zamfara also spoke at the summit, emphasizing that Nigeria can become one of the world’s leading industrial nations if it fully harnesses its agricultural and mineral resources.

Kadafur was accompanied by the Commissioners for Transport, Energy, and Agriculture, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor, and other top officials.