FG, Heifer International Partner for Youth Agritech, Food Security

Nigeria's federal government is calling for enhanced collaboration with Heifer International and other development partners to accelerate youth-led agricultural innovation and bolster the nation's food security. The Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Aliyu Abdullahi, emphasized that government efforts alone are insufficient to transform the agricultural sector.

Speaking at the fifth edition of the Agriculture, Youth and Technology (AYuTe) Challenge in Abuja, Abdullahi highlighted the critical role of organizations like Heifer International in providing platforms, funding, and mentorship. These initiatives bridge the gap between innovative ideas and market-ready solutions, nurturing young entrepreneurs. The minister also noted the government's ongoing efforts to dismantle barriers hindering young Nigerians from entering agriculture, including facilitating access to land, affordable credit, and modern farming inputs.

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We recognise that the government alone cannot do this. We need ecosystem builders like Heifer International to continue providing the platforms, funding and mentorship that bridge the gap between brilliant ideas and market-ready solutions

President Bola Tinubu's administration considers food security a national priority, aiming to transition Nigeria from subsistence farming to technology-driven commercial agriculture. Abdullahi stressed that traditional methods are no longer adequate for the rapidly growing population, necessitating a shift towards high-yield, technology-driven practices. He recognized the top five finalists of the AYuTe Challenge as the new face of Nigerian agriculture, noting that while grants offer financial support, the program's mentorship and exposure provide more enduring benefits.

Dr. Lekan Tobe, Country Director of Heifer International Nigeria, reaffirmed the organization's dedication to engaging more young Nigerians in agriculture through technology and innovation. The AYuTe Challenge was specifically designed to make agriculture appealing to youth by promoting digital solutions over conventional farming. Tobe mentioned that the competition has fostered successful agribusinesses like Ninsey Agro and Essential Africa, whose founders have expanded their operations internationally. This year's winners will share $43,000 in prizes, with the overall winner receiving $20,000.

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As a nation, we are at a critical junction where traditional farming methods alone can no longer meet the demands of our rapidly growing population. We must transition from subsistence farming to technology-driven, high-yield commercial agriculture