FG Launches YiALTF to Boost Youth Agribusiness in Nigeria

The Federal Government of Nigeria unveiled the Youth Agribusiness Land Trust Fund (YiALTF) as a strategic initiative aimed at accelerating youth-led agribusiness, expanding access to land, and modernizing agriculture. The launch took place in Abuja, in partnership with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA).

Comrade Ayodel Olawand, the Minister of Youth Development, described YiALTF as a game-changing intervention that will reposition agriculture as a viable sector for Nigerian youth. The initiative will not only focus on land access but also provide an integrated support system, including capacity building, access to finance, modern technology, and mentorship.

The Ministry plans to convert its 42 youth development centers into fully operational agribusiness hubs, aiming to train six million young Nigerians over the next three years and support the establishment of at least 500,000 youth-led agribusiness enterprises nationwide. Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu emphasized the importance of efficient land utilization and youth-driven innovation for achieving food security and economic diversification.

The initiative is expected to be a cornerstone of the Federal Government's broader agenda to empower youth and strengthen food systems.