On Tuesday, September 16, 2025, Nigeria’s government unveiled incentives to attract agricultural investments, targeting millions of new jobs.
The plan includes reforms to improve irrigation, enhance credit access, and generate rural employment, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s economic vision.
Shettima’s Vision at FAO Forum
Vice President Kashim Shettima announced the measures at the Food and Agriculture Organisation’s Hand-in-Hand Investment Forum in Abuja.
He described hunger as a universal challenge exposing human fragility. Stanley Nkwocha, his Senior Special Assistant on Media, shared details in a statement titled ‘New Agricultural Incentives to Support Farmers.’
Key Initiatives Outlined
The government introduced streamlined land registration, stronger farm credit systems, expanded mechanization, and large-scale irrigation projects.
These steps address soaring food prices and climate challenges, which have fueled demands for sustainable agricultural funding.
Addressing Food Insecurity
Nigeria aims to reduce reliance on food imports and tackle insecurity worsened by 2023’s fuel subsidy removal and currency reforms.
Shettima noted that Nigeria can irrigate over three million hectares of farmland but currently uses less than 10%. “Smart irrigation investments could triple yields and shield us from climate shocks,” he said.
Ambitious Goals
Shettima emphasized, “Hunger connects us all. Food security is vital for global stability.”
The 2021–2025 National Development Plan seeks to lift 35 million people from poverty, create 21 million rural jobs, and ensure sufficient nutrition for all Nigerians.
Ministers Highlight Opportunities
Agriculture Minister Abubakar Kyari pointed to Nigeria’s vast market, fertile land, favorable climate, and growing digital economy as investor magnets.
Budget Minister Atiku Bagudu stressed agriculture’s role in diversifying Nigeria’s economy under Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Gambia’s Agriculture Minister Demba Sabally praised Nigeria’s rice and cassava achievements, urging regional collaboration.
FAO’s Support
Hussein Gadain, FAO Representative for Nigeria and ECOWAS, called the Hand-in-Hand Initiative a key program for agricultural transformation, aiming to end poverty and hunger.
He commended Shettima’s leadership in driving investments and innovation in Nigeria’s food systems.
Gautier Mignot, EU Delegation Head, affirmed the EU’s commitment, with over 80 million euros invested in value chains across seven Nigerian states.
Farmers Demand Action
Farmers expressed cautious optimism. Kabir Kebram, President of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria, said, “These policies could transform agriculture if implemented well. We urge the government to act swiftly and ensure follow-through.”
Peter Dama, Chairman of the Competitive African Rice Forum, warned, “Promises must be matched by action. Tractor pledges were made, but we’re nearing the dry season with no delivery. Implementation is key.”
Women Farmers Voice Concerns
Chinasa Asonye, National Secretary of the Small-Scale Women Farmers Organisation in Nigeria (SWOFON), criticized past government efforts.
“Support like low-interest loans, women-friendly equipment, and land access hasn’t reached smallholder women farmers, who drive food production,” she said.
Nigeria’s agricultural budget remains below 1.9%, far from the Malabo Declaration’s 10% target.
Asonye highlighted that northern states provide grants, but southwest farmers see little support. She questioned the transparency of billions allocated to agriculture and noted the decline of programs like school feeding that once aided farmers. “We’ll keep raising our concerns until action is taken,” she said.
Looking Ahead
These incentives offer hope for Nigeria’s agricultural sector. Effective execution could boost rural economies, reduce hunger, and strengthen food security. The government invites investors to join in building a prosperous future.
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