FG launches youth farmers’ portal to tackle unemployment, food insecurity

The Federal Government has launched the Youth Farmers Enrollment Portal, an initiative aimed at combating rising unemployment and food insecurity in Nigeria.

Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, announced the launch in Abuja, according to a statement by the ministry’s spokesperson, Omolara Esan.

Olawande said the initiative, developed in partnership with the Nigerian Youth Economic Engagement and De-Radicalisation Programme (NIYEEDEP), seeks to create economic opportunities for youth and bolster the nation’s agricultural sector.

“This intervention is designed to align young people with the economic agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, promoting active youth participation in economic development,” Olawande said.

Olawande said the initiative aims to create six million direct jobs for youths in 2025 across agriculture, food and beverage, and the agro-allied sectors.

He said it is also meant to tackle youth unemployment, household poverty, hunger, and food security which are threats to Nigeria’s national security.

The Minister highlighted the portal as an innovative platform targeting individuals aged 18 to 35, offering access to agricultural — training programs, modern farming techniques, mentorship opportunities, financial support, and resources to start or expand agricultural ventures.

‘This initiative is not just about increasing food production, it is about empowering young Nigerians with sustainable skills, creating jobs in rural and urban areas, and ensuring the welfare and security of our citizens,” Olawande explained.

He also called on young people across the country to take advantage of this opportunity to shape the future of agriculture and contribute to national development by visiting the link www.niyeedep.org for enrollment.