Al-Qaryah Plans $1.29bn Agro-Industrial Hub in Kano

Al-Qaryah Agro Allied Ltd has proposed a $1.295 billion Public-Private Partnership (PPP) to transform the Challawa Gorge Dam in Kano State into a significant agro-industrial hub, expected to create over 10,000 jobs and enhance food production. This initiative follows an Expression of Interest (EOI) from the Hadejia-Jama’are River Basin Development Authority (HJRBDA), which will retain ownership and regulatory control of the dam.

The proposal was presented by CEO Abubakar M. Nagwamatse to HJRBDA Managing Director Engr. Rabiu Suleiman Bichi.

Nagwamatse outlined plans to implement modern agricultural technologies, integrating crop production, aquaculture, and irrigation farming. The project aims to increase food supply, reduce prices, and create agricultural export opportunities.

It includes deep-water cage aquaculture, aquaponics, hydroponics, and a feed mill with a capacity of 150,000 metric tonnes. The initiative has received support from government stakeholders, including Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who noted its potential to improve energy supply and agricultural productivity.