The Kwara State Government is inviting investors to invest in meat processing facilities near the state's border with Benin.
The development of agriculture and other farming activities have been identified as the main potential driver for economic growth in the region. In 2004 the Kwara State Government invited a group of displaced Zimbabwean farmers to start with commercial agriculture near the town of Shonga. The project has been a huge success and is an example of the state government's commitment to the agriculture sector.
Investment Opportunity
A sizeable cross-border trade in cattle is already taking place in the area. Cattle are being brought in from Benin and are then sold for their meat within Nigeria.
Opportunities exist to set-up a modern abattoir near the border which will allow residents of Kwara State to directly buy the processed meat instead of the cattle. Investors will find a ready market for meat products, both in Kwara State with its population of 2.5 million, and the rest of Nigeria. Export opportunities to neighbouring countries also exist.
Reasons to Invest in Kwara State
Incentives: The Kwara State Government is willing to extend a number of incentives to serious investors. These include the provision of land and infrastructure, tax holidays and assistance with obtaining financing.
Labour: Kwara State is home to the well-respected University of Ilorin and construction of the new Kwara State University will soon be completed. Kwara State therefore has a large number of graduates who can be employed by companies investing in the state.
Cargo terminal: A new cargo terminal at the Ilorin International Airport will soon be completed and will allow for goods to be transported via air, both locally and internationally.
Power supply: Due to the recent completion of the Ganmo sub-station, the state capital, Ilorin, currently enjoys very close to 24 hours a day of uninterrupted power supply. Many business owners are delighted by the fact that they have to make very little use of generators.
Political will: The government of Kwara State is devoted to creating an enabling environment for business and investment. The state is also committed to continuity of policies which will ensure that an investor friendly environment remains even after the end of the current administration's tenure.
Investment insurance: Nigeria is a member of MIGA (Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency) and the ICSD (International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes).
Contact Details Investors interested in this project should contact Fela Ibidapo, Special Assistant to the Executive Governor, Kwara State (Investments) at infonigeria@gan.co.za
