The National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with agribusiness firm Arzikin Noma Farms for the operationalisation of the Renewable Mega Farm Settlement Project in Kwara State.

Speaking during the signing ceremony in Abuja, NALDA’s Executive Secretary, Engr. Olusegun Adebayo, said the mega farm estate located in Ora Local Government Area would be managed and financed by Arzikin Noma Farms.

He explained that the project is part of NALDA’s broader plan to establish fully serviced agricultural clusters across the country — each covering at least 5,000 hectares and equipped with hostels, warehouses, administrative offices, police posts, and mechanisation hubs.

“NALDA provides the infrastructure, while Arzikin Noma funds inputs and manages production. This ensures sustainability and quality from seed to harvest,” Adebayo said.

He described the initiative as part of the “era of sexy agriculture,” in line with President Bola Tinubu’s drive to make agriculture a viable and attractive enterprise for Nigerians.

Adebayo disclosed that the first phase of cluster farms has already commenced in Ora, Kwara State; Ilawe, Ekiti State; and Bauchi State, with over 8,000 hectares cleared for cultivation.

He also highlighted NALDA’s growing partnerships with public and private sector players to strengthen agricultural value chains nationwide.

“We signed an agreement with the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI) to restore livelihoods for displaced persons, and the pilot project has been cleared for take-off,” he said.

According to him, NALDA is also collaborating with Agbeyewa Farms, Africa’s largest cassava producer, to expand cassava cultivation.

“NALDA has committed to clearing an additional 5,000 hectares for Agbeyewa Farms as evidence of government’s commitment to supporting viable agribusinesses,” he noted.

He added that NALDA has also fulfilled its partnership agreement with the Nigerian Sugar Development Council (NSDC) to establish a commercial sugarcane plantation for local farmers.

Managing Director of Arzikin Noma Farms, Michael Adeshola, described the collaboration as “a big bet for Nigeria,” designed to transform the nation’s food system and reduce dependence on food imports.

“We are moving from subsistence to large-scale farming, creating jobs for youth and women while promoting food sovereignty,” Adeshola said.

Adebayo reaffirmed that NALDA’s initiatives align with President Tinubu’s food security goals under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“We are rebuilding rural communities and creating a sustainable middle class through agriculture. The Renewed Hope Agenda is real,” he concluded.

The signing ceremony coincided with World Food Day, underscoring Nigeria’s renewed commitment to ending hunger and strengthening national food systems.