FCMB Launches Youth Agribusiness Fund with FG and IITA

FCMB has collaborated with the Federal Government and the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) to launch the National Youth Agribusiness Land Trust Fund. This initiative aims to enhance land access for young Nigerians engaged in agribusiness, addressing significant barriers faced by young agripreneurs.

The program seeks to create financial opportunities and support job creation. During the launch in Abuja, Ayodel Olawand, the Minister of Youth Development, stated the goal is to train six million Nigerian youth within a year and support at least 500,000 youth-led agribusinesses.

Kudzai Gumunyu, FCMB's Head of Agribusiness and Non-Oil Export, emphasized the importance of financial support systems for youth in agriculture, noting challenges such as lack of collateral and financing structures. The initiative is part of broader efforts to strengthen youth participation in agriculture and reduce barriers to land access, with the potential to create millions of jobs and improve food production.