In a significant move aimed at empowering young Nigerians, the National Assembly has proposed the ‘Equity Trust Fund’ bill. This dedicated fund is designed to address the challenges faced by young individuals in accessing funding for their various endeavors, ultimately leading to sustainable job creation and economic growth. According to Sen. Saliu Mustapha, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture Production Services and Rural Development, the fund will target Nigerians aged 25 years and below, providing them with the necessary support to grow and excel in their chosen professions and businesses.
The proposal was announced at the National Young People’s Dialogue on Inclusive Food Systems, a joint initiative by ActionAid Nigeria and the Senate Committee on Agriculture Production Services and Rural Development, with support from the German International Cooperation. Mr. Mustapha emphasized the crucial role of agriculture in reducing poverty and driving economic growth in Nigeria, highlighting the importance of youth participation in sustaining agricultural productivity. He noted that young people bring valuable attributes such as resilience, resourcefulness, and perseverance, which can help address pressing challenges like an ageing farming population and widespread youth unemployment.
To harness the potential of young people, Mr. Mustapha stressed the need for deliberate shifts in policy, targeted training, and promotion of agriculture among youths. This includes providing support, resources, and opportunities that encourage their active participation. By working together, governments, organizations, and institutions can create an enabling environment for youth involvement in agriculture, leading to numerous benefits, including job creation, economic growth, and sustainable development.
The dialogue also explored ways to increase youth participation in agriculture, reduce poverty, promote economic growth, and generate employment opportunities for young people. With Nigeria’s population steadily increasing, there is a growing need for a significant rise in food production. Mr. Mustapha pointed out that achieving food security is not only about producing more food but also about ensuring equitable access and distribution. While sustainable agricultural practices have made progress, challenges persist, including climate change, limited arable land, water scarcity, and biodiversity loss.
Youth participation is critical to addressing these challenges, as young people can introduce innovative solutions to the sector with their fresh perspectives, tech-savviness, and passion for sustainability. Nigeria’s vibrant youth population can be a catalyst for both economic growth and improved food production. However, the agricultural sector still faces issues such as an ageing farming population, limited access to modern farming technologies, and underutilized land. Improving agricultural productivity and value chains is essential for reducing unemployment, poverty, and food insecurity.
The Nigerian Youth in Agritech and Innovation Programme, led by Azubike Nwokoye, Food Systems Specialist at ActionAid Nigeria, aims to create sustainable jobs and livelihoods for young people in the agricultural sector, contributing to economic growth. The program’s specific goals include facilitating youth-focused policies and program advocacy within the agricultural space. By promoting youth engagement in agriculture, Nigeria can unlock sustainable development, economic growth, and job creation, ultimately leading to a more food-secure future for all.
