Gombe State is seeking Czech investment in tomato processing and preservation facilities to reduce post-harvest losses, strengthen local value chains and create jobs, as it looks to turn its agricultural output into greater economic value.
Muhammad Magaji, the state Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development, said Gombe accounts for an estimated 10 per cent of Nigeria’s tomato production, making local processing a significant investment opportunity.
He cited Nigeria’s estimated $100 million tomato paste import bill and nationwide post-harvest losses of about 50 per cent of agricultural output, arguing that investments in processing, cold storage, drying and packaging could reduce waste and expand domestic production.
Magaji said improved road networks would connect farming communities to markets and processing centres, while security improvements, including the activities of the Gombe State Vigilante Service, would help create a more favourable environment for investors.
Tomáš Výprachtický, Czech ambassador to Nigeria, said Czech engineering and manufacturing expertise could complement Nigeria’s agricultural resources and workforce through investment, technology transfer and business partnerships.
He identified agriculture, energy, healthcare, security, manufacturing and technology as potential areas of bilateral cooperation, adding that stronger ties between the two countries’ private sectors could translate into practical business opportunities.
The discussions took place at an event organised by the Nigeria-Central Europe Chamber of Commerce (NECC), in partnership with the Regional Trade Institute and the Czech Embassy in Nigeria, to mark the 2026 Czech National Day in Abuja.
Muhammadu Yahaya, Gombe State Governor, represented by his deputy, Manassah Jatau, said partnerships with foreign investors could create jobs, expand businesses and improve livelihoods, particularly for the state’s growing youth population.
Jamilu Isyaku Gwamna, the APC governorship candidate for the 2027 election in Gombe, said Czech expertise in precision engineering, industrial technology and water-production systems could support the state’s agricultural and industrial development.
Gwamna, who was honoured at the event, said he would prioritise job creation, skills development and women’s economic participation if elected governor.
Williams Kuria, Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, called for stronger collaboration between Nigerian and Czech universities in computer science, artificial intelligence, precision engineering and applied research. He stressed that technology partnerships should build local capacity to operate, maintain and eventually manufacture industrial equipment.
Abdulsalam Yahaya Ahmed, Executive Director, Operations, North East Development Commission, said irrigation, logistics and processing infrastructure were essential to expanding agricultural production and supporting industrial growth across the region.
The event also featured a documentary on Gombe’s economic prospects. However, no specific investment amount or signed agreement was announced, leaving the state to translate the discussions into concrete projects and partnerships.
