ELRA, Heifer Renew Partnership to Boost Youth Agriculture

The Equipment Leasing and Rental Association (ELRA) and Heifer International Nigeria have renewed their partnership to improve youth access to equipment leasing, which is crucial for agricultural entrepreneurship and job creation in Nigeria. This commitment was announced during the grand final of the fifth edition of the AYUT Nigeria Challenge held in Abuja.

Donald Wokoma, the Chief Executive Officer of ELRA, praised Heifer International Nigeria for its support in empowering young Nigerian agricultural entrepreneurs through skill acquisition and sustainable livelihood programs. The partnership aims to address the significant challenges faced by young business owners, particularly limited access to essential equipment and technology.

ELRA plans to facilitate access to tractors, irrigation systems, agro-processing machines, and renewable energy solutions. The AYUT Nigeria Challenge also awarded grants totaling $40,000 to winners, including Kelechi Oleka, who received $20,000 as the overall winner, and Bello Amo Bwala and Udokanma Georg, who won $12,000 and $8,000, respectively.