In a significant initiative aimed at reshaping Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, the Federal Government, with support from the French Development Agency (AFD), has unveiled a comprehensive strategic plan. This plan is designed to bolster agricultural productivity, enhance food security, and improve the livelihoods of Nigerian farmers.
Key Features of the Strategic Plan
The strategic plan, developed with funding from AFD and expertise from the consulting firm Semaris, was formally presented to Dr. Aliyu Abdullahi, Minister of State for Agriculture, during a handover ceremony in Abuja. The event was attended by notable figures, including AFD Country Director Xavier Muron, Semaris Representative Timothee Witkowski, and RAAMP National Coordinator Engr. Aminu Bodinga Mohammed.
Crafted in collaboration with the World Bank and other key stakeholders, this initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s priority to secure the nation’s food systems. The strategy emphasizes strengthening agricultural infrastructure, improving market access, and enhancing food safety standards to support farmers and facilitate growth within the sector.
Focus on Key Agricultural Corridors
According to a statement issued by Amadi Vivian, Development Communication Officer, the plan highlights critical agricultural corridors, including Kano-Kaduna, Oyo-Lagos, and Onitsha-Port Harcourt. The strategy aims to improve hygiene standards, develop essential infrastructure, and establish a more favorable market environment for smallholder farmers.
The initiative targets these critical regions with the expectation of improving transportation efficiency, reducing post-harvest losses, and increasing access to major markets for local farmers. This approach is anticipated to contribute significantly to enhanced agricultural productivity and national food security.
Ministerial Commitment
Dr. Abdullahi expressed deep appreciation for the partnership with AFD and the World Bank, stating, “This strategy underscores our commitment to fostering a resilient agricultural economy that can sustainably support Nigeria’s food needs and raise farmer incomes. We look forward to the transformative changes this strategy will bring to our agricultural markets.”
Implementation Timeline
The implementation of the strategic plan is set to commence in the first quarter of 2025, marking a crucial step toward establishing a vibrant and sustainable agricultural future for Nigeria. Engr. Aminu Mohammed described the report as a practical roadmap aimed at improving the lives of both urban consumers and rural producers, adding, “The report presents a detailed blueprint for enhancing Nigeria’s food distribution network. It is more than a policy document.”
This strategic plan is poised to play a vital role in transforming Nigeria’s agricultural sector, fostering economic growth, and ensuring food security for its growing population.
