Niger Foods partners with NALDA, Ministry for Youth Development to engage 100,000 youths in agriculture

In a major step towards youth empowerment and agricultural development, Niger Foods has signed a tripartite agreement with the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) and the Ministry for Youth Development to launch a National Youth Agricultural Scheme.

The initiative, which will engage 100,000 youths, will begin with Niger State as the pilot location.

The agreement signing took place at the Council Chamber of the Government House in Minna and was supervised by Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, who is known for his strong advocacy for agricultural reforms.

According to the agreement,Niger Foods will be responsible for crop production, while NALDA will see to Land Development and the Ministry of Youths Development will serve as a facilitator bringing in funds and social services among others.

The Chairman of Niger Foods, Sammy Adigun explained that the partnership would produce half a million tons of food and that each of the youth will earn N150, 000 in the first year with an estimation that it would be increased to millions after 4 to 5 years.

The Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of NALDA, Cornelius Oluwasegun Adebayo, described Niger State as the leading light in Agricultural development,and hence, the State is a perfect place to start the partnership towards youth development.

The Minster of Youths Development,Mr. Ayodele Olawande,said that the signing of the agreement is to fulfil part of the promises of the President to the youths and to encourage the youths to be self-reliant and commended the Governor for his innovative ideas in the areas of technology and agriculture.

Responding,farmer Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago expressed delight with the NALDA and Ministry for Youth Development for signing the agreement,which he described as a landmark achievement.

He said the State is very intentional about crop mechanisation, livestock development and irrigation systems.

The farmer Governor revealed that in the next two years Niger State would make trillions of naira from livestock as the State has an understanding with the Saudi Arabia government to provide 500 rams at N500,000 each for Eidel Kabir celebration.

He expressed optimism that the agreement will achieve the desired objective pointing out that there are potentials in youths and with little support, they will do well in life.

While highlighting some achievements and plans of his administration,the farmer Governor appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for all his efforts at bringing succour to the teaming population of youths and women in the country and that Niger State will continue to support it.