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[QUOTE="Munyaradzi Mafaro, post: 33229, member: 636"]
The federal government rejects claims about Northeast states being left out of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones project. Agriculture Minister Abubakar Kyari said Saturday that all states received invitations to join the $538 million program. He spoke at an Abuja press conference after lawmakers criticized the selection process. Kyari stressed that any state meeting requirements can participate regardless of location. The minister explained that first-phase selections came from states showing interest.

Eight areas qualified for initial implementation: Kaduna, Kano, Kwara, Oyo, Ogun, Imo, Cross River, and FCT. Kyari mentioned that some states never responded when contacted about the loan-based program. Recent launches in Cross River and Kaduna sparked new interest from previously uninvolved states. The minister sent letters to excluded states earlier this year asking for interest in future phases. His office received 27 responses, but only ten states met basic participation standards.

Kyari called accusations of regional exclusion incorrect. He asked lawmakers to help their states finish applications for upcoming project phases instead of making complaints. The minister emphasized the open nature of the selection process throughout his remarks. Officials continue working with interested states on preparation steps. The government wants widespread participation across all regions.
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