The World Bank has approved a $500 million credit facility for Nigeria to boost agricultural productivity and strengthen value chains under the Nigeria Sustainable Agricultural Value Chains for Growth (AGROW) Project.
The funding, provided through the International Development Association, is aimed at supporting smallholder farmers, improving food and nutrition security, and creating jobs across the country.
Agriculture remains Nigeria’s largest employer, but the sector continues to face challenges, including low productivity, poor access to inputs, climate shocks, and weak market linkages. As a result, many smallholder farmers are still engaged in subsistence farming, limiting the sector’s potential.
The AGROW project will provide support to agribusinesses that source directly from smallholder farmers through a results-based matching grant system. The initiative will focus on key value chains such as rice, maize, cassava, and soybeans, while also improving post-harvest handling, agro-processing, and market access.
READ ALSO: Nigeria’s Oil Reserves Dropped To 37.01bn Barrels In January — NUPRC
It will further strengthen agricultural research and extension services, expand access to climate-resilient seeds, and introduce a national digital farm and farmer registry. Farmers are also expected to benefit from digital advisory services, including localized weather and climate information.
In addition, the project will enhance seed and fertilizer regulatory systems, boost the supply of high-quality seeds, and encourage private sector participation in agricultural production. It will also promote transparent land-based investments, with a strong focus on inclusion, particularly for women and youth.
According to the World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Mathew Verghis, the project is expected to benefit up to one million smallholder farmers, attract significant private investment, and improve yields across targeted crops.
The six-year programme, scheduled to run from 2026 to 2032, is also projected to mobilise an additional $220 million in private agribusiness investment, aligning with Nigeria’s broader goals of enhancing productivity, job creation, and food security.
