By Julian Osamoto
Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has identified youth participation as a critical driver in revitalising Nigeria’s agricultural sector and achieving sustainable food security.
The Minister, Abubakar Kyari, said empowering young people through access to finance, technology and innovation will accelerate agricultural development and strengthen agribusiness across the country.
He made this known during a courtesy visit by a United Nations delegation led by Felipe Paullier in Abuja.
In a statement by Ezeaja Ikemefuna Head, Department of Information, Kyari notes that the Federal Government is prioritising youth inclusion through policies aimed at improving financial access, creating economic opportunities and building an enabling environment within the agricultural ecosystem.
It reveals key initiatives to include the operationalisation of the National Agricultural Development Fund and the recapitalisation of the Bank of Agriculture with ₦1.5 trillion, one of the largest agricultural financing commitments in Nigeria’s history.
According to the minister, these interventions will expand access to affordable funding for youth-led agribusinesses and stimulate sector-wide growth.
“The government is also promoting mechanisation, digital platforms, extension services and access to modern farming tools to support a new generation of farmers”.
The minister highlighted the contributions of young Nigerian innovators such as Samson Ogbole, Femi Adekoya, Atinuke Lebile and Azeez Salawu, noting their roles in advancing soilless farming, drone technology, biofortified crops as well as agricultural coordination systems.
UN Backs Youth Inclusion
Speaking during the visit, Felipe Paullier said the UN Youth Office is committed to advancing youth-focused policies globally.
Paullier stressed the need to improve access to land, resources, technology and information, while strengthening youth participation in policy development.
Largest Mechanisation Drive
Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Marcus Ogunbiyi, revealed that the government is rolling out one of the largest mechanisation programmes in Nigeria’s history.
“This includes the procurement of 2,000 tractors and over 9,000 agricultural implements aimed at boosting productivity and creating employment opportunities for young people”.
He described the initiative as a strategic move to transform agriculture into a sector driven by innovation, dignity and sustainable livelihoods.
Youth Applaud Government Support
Meanwhile, agri-preneur Tobi Olanrewaju commended the Federal Government for providing financial support through the National Agricultural Development Fund, as well as distributing free agricultural inputs and equipment to young farmers.
