The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Youth Development, has partnered with the Niger State Government and the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) to engage 100,000 Nigerian youths in agriculture.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed today at the Government House in Minna, Niger State, with the goal of enhancing food security and job creation.
Key Stakeholders and Objectives
The signing ceremony was attended by the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande; Niger State Governor, Farmer Mohammed Umar Bago; Chairman of Niger Foods, Mr. Sammy Adigun; and the CEO/Executive Secretary of NALDA, Mr. Cornelius Oluwasegun Adebayo.
Mr. Adigun revealed that the initiative aims to produce 500,000 tons of food, with each participating youth earning ₦150,000 in the first year and the potential to earn millions over the next four to five years.
Governor Bago was commended by Comrade Olawande for his dedication to youth empowerment and food security. The minister emphasized that the agreement aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on job creation and food sufficiency.
Strategic Importance of Niger State
Mr. Adebayo described Niger State as a prime location for agricultural development, highlighting its role as a model for similar initiatives. He noted that the program would create direct employment in agriculture, agro-allied industries, technology, the creative economy, and sports.
The Federal Government is also investing in modern agricultural techniques such as irrigation and green technology to enhance food production.
Call for Financial Support
Prof. Lateef Sanni, Executive Director of the Nigeria Stock Product Research Institute, urged the government to provide financial support to young farmers. He stressed the importance of accessible funding and single-digit interest rate loans to sustain agricultural ventures.
This partnership is expected to significantly boost food production while addressing youth unemployment in Nigeria.
