FG targets youth-led agriculture with N1.5trn finance, mechanisation drive

The federal government has intensified efforts to reposition Nigeria’s agriculture sector by placing youth at the centre of its transformation strategy, backed by major financing and mechanisation initiatives.

This followed a courtesy visit by a United Nations delegation to the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in Abuja.

Abubakar Kyari, minister of agriculture and food security, said increased youth participation would accelerate growth across the sector. “Active participation of youth in agriculture would fast-track development in the sector, increase production, revitalise agribusiness, and achieve food and nutrition security,” he said.

Kyari said the government is prioritising youth inclusion through policy and financing reforms.

“The federal government is making deliberate efforts to prioritise youth in the agricultural ecosystem through financial inclusion, economic opportunities, and enabling environments,” he said.

He disclosed that the government has operationalised the National Agricultural Development Fund and approved a N1.5 trillion recapitalisation of the Bank of Agriculture.

“These measures will expand access to affordable finance for youth-led agribusinesses,” he said.

The minister added that targeted interventions in mechanisation, digital platforms, extension services and access to finance are designed to support a new generation of farmers.

“Through targeted programmes, government will empower a new generation of farmers,” he said.

He noted that young Nigerians are already contributing to innovation in the sector, including soilless farming, drone technology and biofortified crops.

In his remarks, Felipe Paullier, assistant secretary-general for youth affairs, said the United Nations is strengthening youth engagement globally.

“The Youth Office was established by the General Assembly to lead engagement and advocacy for the advancement of youth-related issues across United Nations member states,” he said.

He added that the office would expand access to key resources.

“It will foster increased access to resources, land, technology, and information, and boost youth participation in policy dialogue,” he said.

Also speaking, Marcus Olaniyi Ogunbiyi, permanent secretary at FMAFS, said the government has launched a major mechanisation programme.

“The procurement of 2,000 tractors and over 9,000 agricultural implements represents the largest mechanisation drive in Nigeria’s history,” he said.

He said the initiative would improve productivity and create jobs. “This bold intervention will expand access to modern machinery, enhance productivity, and create new opportunities for youth in machinery operation, maintenance, and agribusiness services,” he said.

A youth agripreneur, Tobi Jeremiah Olanrewaju, commended the interventions. “Financial support through the National Agricultural Development Fund, as well as free agricultural inputs and implements, is helping to strengthen youth participation in farming,” he said.

The government said the initiatives form part of broader efforts to boost agricultural productivity, create jobs and strengthen food security.