The Federal Government has reiterated the need to improve youth access to land as a way of increasing participation in agriculture and boosting food security.
Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, made the call at the national launch of the Youth Agribusiness Land Trust Fund in Abuja.
He described the initiative as a strategic response to one of the biggest challenges facing young people in agriculture – access to land.
According to the Minister, Nigeria’s agricultural potential remains largely untapped due to land ownership challenges and inadequate coordination. He stressed that agriculture should be viewed as a modern business capable of creating jobs, driving innovation, and growing the economy.
Bagudu also called for stronger collaboration among all levels of government and increased private sector investment to unlock opportunities across the agricultural value chain.
Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, said the programme aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and is designed to remove barriers preventing young Nigerians from participating in agribusiness.
He noted that the initiative goes beyond land allocation by providing training, mentorship, technology support, financing opportunities, and access to markets.
Olawande added that the success of the programme will depend on collaboration among government institutions, development partners, financial organisations, and the private sector.
The Youth Agribusiness Land Trust Fund is expected to create sustainable pathways for youth employment, increase agricultural productivity, and strengthen Nigeria’s food security efforts.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
