By Nafiu Toyin Abdulqadri.
In a significant move to address youth unemployment and bolster food security in Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, the Niger State Government, and the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) have signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch a National Youth Agricultural Scheme. The initiative aims to empower 100,000 young Nigerians with agricultural skills and opportunities.
The MoU signing ceremony took place yesterday at the Council Chamber of the Government House in Minna, Niger State. In attendance were the Minister for Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande; Niger State Governor, Farmer Mohammed Umar Bago; the Chairman of Niger Foods, Mr. Sammy Adigun; and the CEO/Executive Secretary of NALDA, Mr. Cornelius Oluwasegun Adebayo.
During the event, Minister Olawande commended Governor Bago for his commitment to ensuring food security and creating employment opportunities for Nigerian youth. He described the partnership as a strategic step toward strengthening the relationship between the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, the Niger State Government, and NALDA.
Olawande highlighted that the agreement aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritizes food security and job creation for the nation’s youth. He expressed confidence that the initiative would provide a sustainable platform for young Nigerians to contribute to the agricultural sector while securing their livelihoods.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, in his remarks, expressed optimism about the scheme’s potential to achieve its objectives. He emphasized the capabilities of Nigerian youth, stating that with minimal support, they have the potential to excel and drive the country’s agricultural transformation.
The National Youth Agricultural Scheme is expected to provide training, resources, and access to farmland for participants, enabling them to engage in large-scale agricultural production. The initiative is also anticipated to boost food supply, reduce unemployment, and stimulate economic growth in rural and urban areas.