Abuja, Nigeria – May 16, 2025: Senator Saliu Mustapha, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, passionately advocated for youth involvement in agriculture during the National Young People’s Dialogue on Inclusive Food Systems.
Representing Kwara Central, he emphasized the need to empower young Nigerians through innovative farming solutions.
The event, co-hosted by ActionAid Nigeria and supported by GIZ Sustainable Agriculture Systems, united stakeholders to tackle youth unemployment and poverty.
Discussions focused on practical strategies to attract young people to agriculture while boosting economic growth.
Senator Mustapha underscored the sector’s potential to drive national development.
“Agriculture is Nigeria’s backbone, but we must modernize it to appeal to the younger generation,” he declared.
He proposed agritech, entrepreneurship, and value chain development as key areas for youth engagement.
His speech resonated with attendees, who praised his forward-thinking approach.
Additionally, the Senator revealed plans for a bill supporting Nigerians under 30, especially those with disabilities.
The legislation aims to provide training and funding for young agripreneurs.
“Inclusivity is non-negotiable—everyone deserves opportunities to thrive,” he asserted. His commitment to equitable growth drew widespread applause.
Senator Mustapha also applauded ActionAid’s Youth in AgriTech Programme for its impactful work.
He highlighted initiatives like NADFund, which bridge gaps in access to resources. By fostering innovation, such programs empower youth to revolutionize farming practices.
However, he urged stakeholders to move beyond talk and take concrete steps. “Dialogue is vital, but action is imperative,” he insisted.
He called for policies that harness youth creativity to transform agriculture into a dynamic, tech-driven sector.
The dialogue marked a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s agricultural reform efforts. Participants left hopeful that the ideas shared would translate into actionable policies. With youth at the forefront, the nation’s food security and economic stability look brighter.
As Senator Mustapha continues leading this charge, his dedication signals a promising shift toward sustainable development. By investing in young farmers, Nigeria can cultivate a prosperous future for generations to come.