***JICA’s ¥12 Billion Support Targets Input Delivery, Post-Harvest Systems Ahead of 2025 Wet Season
In a strategic move to strengthen Nigeria’s food security and support rural communities, the Federal Government has partnered with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to empower 500,000 farmers ahead of the 2025 wet season.
The initiative, backed by JICA’s ¥12 billion Food Security Emergency Support Fund, will focus on improving access to quality inputs, enhancing post-harvest handling, and expanding market access — key elements aimed at increasing agricultural productivity and farmer incomes.
Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, met in Abuja with Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, and the Managing Director of the Bank of Agriculture, Ayo Sotinrin, to align on strategic implementation of the programme.
Director of Information and Public Relations, Mohammed Manga in a statement quoted him thus,
“This collaboration with JICA comes at a critical time as we seek to build a more resilient agricultural system and ensure no Nigerian goes hungry,”
The partnership is part of a broader effort to build sustainable food systems and cushion the impact of global supply disruptions. With a targeted reach of 500,000 farmers, the initiative is expected to not only boost yields but also support rural prosperity by improving farmers’ access to markets and reducing post-harvest losses.
Experts say the move is a signal for renewed focus on agriculture as a driver of inclusive economic growth, especially in the face of rising food prices and global uncertainty.
The programme rollout will be anchored by the Bank of Agriculture, with additional oversight from the Ministries of Finance and Agriculture to ensure transparency and impact at scale.
With the 2025 planting season fast approaching, this partnership marks a timely and potentially transformative step in Nigeria’s ongoing quest for food security and agricultural self-sufficiency.