Niger Foods Partners with NALDA and Youth Ministry to Empower 100,000 Young Farmers
By Yahaya Zakka Minna
Niger Foods has officially entered into a tripartite agreement with the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) and the Ministry for Youth Development, aimed at engaging 100,000 youths in a National Youth Agricultural Scheme, with Niger State serving as the pilot for this initiative.
The agreement was signed under the supervision of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago at the Government House in Minna. As outlined in the partnership, Niger Foods will focus on crop production, while NALDA will oversee land development.
The Ministry for Youth Development will facilitate the initiative by securing funding and providing essential social services among other responsibilities.
Sammy Adig, Chairman of Niger Foods, highlighted that this collaboration aims to produce half a million tons of food, with each participant expected to earn approximately N150,000 in the first year—a figure anticipated to grow significantly in the subsequent four to five years.
The Executive Secretary and CEO of NALDA, Cornelius Oluwasegun Adebayo, praised Niger State as a leader in agricultural development, affirming it to be an ideal location to launch this pivotal youth empowerment initiative.
Minister for Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, emphasized that this agreement is part of the President’s promise to the youth and aims to foster self-reliance among them. He commended the Governor for his innovative approaches to integrating technology within the agriculture sector.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago expressed his enthusiasm for the signing of this landmark agreement, underscoring the state’s commitment to mechanization, livestock development, and irrigation systems.
He revealed plans for Niger State to generate substantial revenue from livestock, citing a partnership with the Saudi Arabian government for the provision of 500 rams for the upcoming Eid al-Adha celebration.
The Governor expressed confidence that this agreement would accomplish its objectives, emphasizing the potential of the youth and the positive impact that support can have on their success.
He also took the opportunity to appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continuous efforts to uplift the youth and women in Nigeria, assuring that Niger State will remain supportive of these initiatives.
