Cross River State’s Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) project , has reached a significant milestone with the recent bid opening process for the development of the Agro-Industrial Hub (AIH) and Agricultural Transformation Center (ATC). Building on efforts to enhance agricultural productivity and create sustainable value chains, this bid opening marks an important step in the next phase of the project, which is assisted by the African Development Bank (AfDB) and driven by the state government. The initiative is set to reshape the agricultural landscape by establishing a cutting-edge agro-processing zone, aimed at boosting local food production, creating jobs, and stimulating economic growth.
The journey began with the first pre-bidding conference on February 10th, 2025, bringing together SAPZ staff from the state and national office and a group of prospective bidders. The conference’s purpose was to clarify the project’s requirements and ensure that all interested companies had the necessary information to submit their proposals.
On the day of the bid opening, February 24th, 2025, the long-anticipated moment arrived. The opening was conducted in a transparent and meticulous manner, with the presence of relevant agencies, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and other stakeholders to ensure that the process was carried out with integrity.
Declaring the event open virtually, the National project coordinator Dr. Kabir Yusuf welcomed everyone and commended Cross river state on the milestone.
The State Project Coordinator, Rev. Victor Edet, alongside the state infrastructureEngineer, Engr. Enang Egbe, led the bid opening, carefully inspecting each submission before announcing the details aloud for everyone to hear.
The three firms that submitted bids were: ARISE IIP & GROUP SPC International Ltd, M.P Infrastructure Ltd., and China Geo-engineering Corporation CGCOC GROUP.
Representatives from the bidding companies confirmed the integrity of their bid packages, and the CSO representatives and stakeholders took note of the process.
This step marked a major milestone in the project, ensuring that the SAPZ initiative was moving forward with transparency and accountability at every stage.
As the project progresses, the focus now shifts to selecting the contractor who will be tasked with bringing the SAPZ vision to life.
This includes designing, building, and operating the Agro-Industrial Hub, with a focus on long-term sustainability. Bidders will need to conduct comprehensive investment analyses, including cash flow projections and equity contributions, to ensure the project’s success. Gender inclusivity and social safeguards also remain a priority, with a call for bidders to ensure their designs are accessible to all, including people living with disabilities.
The SAPZ project represents a bold step toward economic diversification and sustainability in Cross River State.
By fostering a collaborative, transparent bidding process, the state is laying the groundwork for a transformative project that promises to reshape the agricultural and industrial sectors, create jobs, and drive long-term growth.
With the bid opening now complete, the next phase will determine who will carry the torch and bring this vital initiative to life, ensuring that Cross River State becomes a leader in agro-processing and industrial development in Nigeria.
