Cross River State has announced plans to attract ₦150 billion in agribusiness investments over the next six years as part of a broader strategy to transform agriculture into a major driver of economic growth, job creation, and food security.
The target was disclosed during a stakeholders’ engagement on Project GROW, an agricultural development initiative aimed at strengthening value chains, improving access to finance, and expanding market opportunities for farmers across the state.
According to officials, the state government is positioning agriculture as a commercially viable sector capable of attracting private investment while increasing productivity and income for farmers.
₦18bn Offtake Agreement Secured
As part of efforts to guarantee market access for agricultural producers, Cross River has secured an ₦18 billion produce offtake agreement with Flour Mills of Nigeria.
The agreement covers the supply of 2,000 metric tonnes of soybean and 20,000 metric tonnes of maize, providing farmers with a ready market for their produce and reducing uncertainties associated with agricultural marketing.
State officials noted that discussions are also ongoing regarding future cassava supply arrangements, further expanding opportunities for local producers.
Driving Agricultural Financing
The state has also made progress in mobilising funding for agricultural development. Through Project GROW, approximately ₦3 billion in agricultural financing has been facilitated, with an additional ₦1.5 billion secured to support activities during the 2026 farming season.
To further strengthen investment in the sector, the government is pursuing the establishment of a ₦30 billion Agri-Development Fund designed to reduce investment risks and encourage greater private-sector participation.
Officials say the fund will support the state’s long-term goal of building a more resilient and commercially competitive agricultural economy.
Focus on Key Value Chains
Project GROW currently supports several agricultural value chains, including rice, cassava, maize, soybean, and aquaculture.
The programme also promotes the cultivation of crops such as cowpea, sorghum, groundnut, wheat, and orange-fleshed sweet potato as part of efforts to diversify agricultural production and improve food availability.
Beyond production, the initiative seeks to improve access to markets, financing, and technical knowledge for farmers across the state.
Job Creation and Capacity Building
The programme has recorded notable progress in farmer training and employment generation.
More than 5,300 farmers have reportedly received training through partnerships with development organisations and agricultural stakeholders, while 391 direct jobs have been created under the initiative.
State officials believe continued investment in agriculture will unlock additional employment opportunities, especially for young people and rural communities.
Strengthening Economic Growth
The Cross River State Government says agriculture remains central to its economic development agenda.
By attracting investment, expanding market access, and supporting local producers, the state hopes to strengthen food security, increase rural incomes, and position itself as a leading agribusiness destination in Nigeria.
The latest investment drive and offtake agreement are expected to serve as important steps toward achieving these objectives while fostering sustainable growth within the agricultural sector.
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