In a landmark move aimed at unlocking the vast potential of Nigeria’s youth population and transforming the agricultural sector, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development has officially launched the Youth in Agribusiness Land Trust Fund (YiALTF), a groundbreaking initiative designed to connect young Nigerians with opportunities in agriculture, agribusiness, and sustainable economic growth.
The initiative was formally unveiled by the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, who described the programme as a strategic intervention that goes beyond land allocation to address critical national priorities, including job creation, food security, entrepreneurship development and youth empowerment.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, the Minister emphasized that the Youth in Agribusiness Land Trust Fund represents a bold commitment by the Federal Government to position young people at the forefront of Nigeria’s agricultural transformation agenda.
According to him, the programme will leverage existing Youth Development Centres across the country by transforming them into modern agricultural hubs equipped to provide comprehensive training, mentorship, access to technology, business development support and market linkages for aspiring and existing young agripreneurs.
“This initiative is not just about land; it is about creating opportunities, generating employment, enhancing food production, and building a prosperous future for Nigerian youth. Through YiALTF, we are creating a sustainable ecosystem that will empower millions of young Nigerians to become active contributors to national development,” the Minister stated.
He disclosed that the Ministry has set an ambitious target of training six million young Nigerians within the next three years, while also supporting the establishment and growth of at least 500,000 youth-led agribusiness enterprises across various segments of the agricultural value chain.
As part of activities marking the launch, selected young agripreneurs received financial support to scale up their agricultural ventures, underscoring the Ministry’s commitment to nurturing youth-driven enterprises and promoting innovation within the sector.
The Minister expressed appreciation to key partners and stakeholders whose collaboration made the initiative possible, including the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, FCMB, First Bank , the Food and Agriculture Organization, the Bank of Agriculture, development partners, financial institutions and private sector stakeholders.
He commended the organizations for their confidence in the capacity and potential of Nigerian youth, noting that their support would be instrumental in creating pathways for young people to thrive within the agricultural economy.
The launch of the Youth in Agribusiness Land Trust Fund aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Bola Ahmed Tinubu and reflects the Federal Government’s determination to harness agriculture as a catalyst for economic diversification, food sufficiency, wealth creation, and inclusive youth development.
Stakeholders at the event hailed the initiative as a transformative programme capable of revolutionizing youth participation in agriculture while contributing significantly to national food security, economic resilience, and sustainable development.
