Toba Owojaiye reporting
Niger State, Nigeria
The Federal Government of Nigeria, in collaboration with the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA), has launched an initiative to engage 100,000 youths in agriculture.
Truth Live News gathered that this novel program aims to bolster food security and create employment opportunities for the nation’s youth.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for this initiative was signed at the Government House in Minna, Niger State. The ceremony was attended by key stakeholders, including the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande; Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago; Chairman of Niger Foods, Mr. Sammy Adigun; and NALDA’s CEO/Executive Secretary, Mr. Cornelius Oluwasegun Adebayo.
Mr. Adigun highlighted that the partnership aims to produce 500,000 tons of food, with each participating youth expected to earn N150,000 in the first year. He also noted the potential for increased earnings in subsequent years, projecting that participants could earn millions over the next four to five years.
This initiative aligns with the broader goals of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, led by Minister Abubakar Kyari. Since his appointment on August 16, 2023, Minister Kyari has been instrumental in formulating and implementing policies to ensure food security and promote agricultural sustainability in Nigeria. His leadership emphasizes practical actions over public declarations, reflecting a commitment to tangible results in the agricultural sector.
By focusing on youth engagement in agriculture, this program not only addresses unemployment but also ensures the sustainability of Nigeria’s agricultural sector, contributing to the nation’s economic growth and development.