The federal government has entered into a partnership with the Niger State Government and the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) to empower 100,000 young Nigerians through the National Youth Agricultural Scheme. The initiative is designed to boost food production, create employment, and position agriculture as a viable career path for the youth.
The agreement was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed at the Niger State Government House in Minna. Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, signed on behalf of the federal government, while Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, Chairman of Niger Foods, Sammy Adigun, and NALDA’s CEO, Cornelius Oluwasegun Adebayo, signed for their respective entities.
During the signing ceremony, Olawande commended Governor Bago for his commitment to food security and youth empowerment, emphasizing that the collaboration would significantly impact Nigeria’s agricultural sector. He noted that the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to address unemployment and food scarcity through strategic investments in agriculture.
A statement by Omolara Esan, Director of Information and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, highlighted the agreement as a major step towards strengthening cooperation between the ministry, Niger State, and NALDA. Olawande expressed confidence that the partnership would serve as a model for similar programs across the country, ensuring that Nigerian youths are actively engaged in nation-building through agriculture.
Chairman of Niger Foods, Sammy Adigun, provided insights into the economic potential of the initiative. He explained that the project aims to produce 500,000 tons of food annually, with each participating youth earning N150,000 in the first year. Over the next four to five years, their earnings could grow significantly, positioning them as successful agripreneurs. Adigun stressed that beyond financial benefits, the scheme would provide participants with practical agricultural skills, access to farmland, and exposure to modern farming techniques.
NALDA’s CEO, Cornelius Adebayo, described Niger State as an agricultural hub with vast potential, making it an ideal location to launch the program. He emphasized that the initiative is not just about job creation but about building a sustainable agricultural system that will enhance food production nationwide.
Governor Mohammed Bago welcomed the collaboration, describing it as a landmark achievement for Niger State and the country at large. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting youth development and maximizing the state’s agricultural potential. According to him, Nigerian youths have the talent and resilience to excel in agriculture with the right support and resources.
The National Youth Agricultural Scheme is expected to provide participants with the necessary tools, training, and financial incentives to make farming a profitable and attractive career. With the combined efforts of the federal government, Niger State, and NALDA, the program is set to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economic growth while tackling unemployment among young people.
