FEC approves N4.1trn Kashimbila agro-allied, cargo airport development

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the concession of the Kashimbila Integrated Cargo and Agro-Allied Airport in Taraba State through a public-private partnership (PPP) arrangement.

In a statement issued on Friday, Jobson Ewalefoh, Director-General of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), revealed that the FEC also approved the development of over 3,000 hectares of farmland, fish farming facilities, and a livestock ranch as part of the project.

These initiatives aim to enhance Nigeria’s agricultural export potential.

Ewalefoh emphasized that the processes for this project were completed in six months, fulfilling the directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to expedite the procurement of PPP projects.

The Kashimbila project will involve the concession of over 3,000 hectares of farmland for irrigation, the upgrade of the airport for agro-cargo services, and the creation of an aerotropolis and Free Trade Zone. The zone will include business parks, logistics hubs, and residential areas, all located in Taraba State.

Ewalefoh explained that the project aims to improve agricultural logistics, enhance market access, and stimulate economic growth. He noted that the concession would significantly increase agricultural productivity by enabling year-round irrigation farming.

Additionally, the project is expected to create numerous job opportunities, attract investment in agribusiness, and drive both local and national economic growth through trade and exports.

The Kashimbila project is projected to generate an estimated N4.1 trillion in revenue over the concession period from various sources.

Ewalefoh further highlighted that the project would promote regional integration by connecting Taraba to both national and international markets, while creating thousands of direct and indirect jobs.

FEC approves N4.1trn Kashimbila agro-allied, cargo airport development