NADF pledges to transform Nigeria’s economy through agriculture

The National Agricultural Development Fund has reaffirmed its commitment to revolutionising Nigeria’s agricultural sector, positioning it as a cornerstone of economic and social development.

NADF, in a statement on Sunday by its Executive Secretary, Mohammed Ibrahim, says it’s committed to transforming the agricultural landscape in Nigeria.

Ibrahim said this during the 32nd Convocation Ceremony at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Saturday.

“Agriculture is the heartbeat of our nation,” Ibrahim stated, emphasising the sector’s pivotal role in driving innovation, economic growth, and social transformation.

“It is not just about tilling the soil; it is about cultivating ideas, nurturing change, and harvesting opportunities.”

Ibrahim highlighted NADF’s swift response to a devastating epidemic in Nigeria’s ginger-growing belt, which destroyed 80% of the region’s produce.

The fund supported affected farmers by helping them transition to alternative crops such as maize and sorghum, mitigating the epidemic’s impact and aiding recovery.

He also discussed NADF’s collaborations with global development partners, including GIZ and NITDA, to implement climate-smart agriculture and integrate advanced technologies such as UAVs, IoT, and blockchain into farming practices.

These innovations, he stated, aim to improve productivity, sustainability, and resilience in the sector.

In addressing systemic challenges, Ibrahim underscored the importance of locally relevant, demand-driven research. He announced the completion of a Needs Assessment of Agricultural Research Institutes and Federal Colleges of Agriculture, designed to identify commercially viable projects that could attract private funding.

Speaking to the graduates, Ibrahim painted a promising picture of agriculture’s potential to transform Nigeria.

“You are future disruptors of this industry,” he said, urging them to embrace agriculture as a modern, profitable, and fulfilling career.

“Imagine millions of farmers planting seeds that power industries, stabilise communities, reduce poverty, and drive exports.”

He called on the graduates to see themselves as more than farmers, but as nation-builders, tasked with unlocking agriculture’s transformative potential for the country.

Ibrahim’s address reflected an optimistic vision for Nigeria’s agricultural sector, one that prioritises innovation, resilience, and inclusive growth.

“Agriculture is not merely a livelihood; it is a force for national transformation,” he declared.

“We are not just farmers; we are nation-builders.”