Federal government partners UNESCO REF to empower 4.5 million in climate-smart agriculture
The federal government has partnered with UNESCO’s Read and Earn Federation (REF) to empower 4.5 million Nigerians through a national climate-smart agriculture initiative.
The programme, coordinated via the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Food Security (SSAP-FS), targets youth, young women, and retiring civil servants.
Barrister Yejide Ogundipe, SSAP-FS, said the initiative aligns with SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 13 (Climate Action) and will run in two phases: 3 million beneficiaries in phase one and 1.5 million in phase two.
Participants will be trained in Hydroponics and Agro-Kenaf Enterprise Development, with Kenaf participants expected to earn at least ₦400,000 every twelve weeks.
The programme is anchored in the National Agricultural Technology and Innovation Policy (NATIP) and aims to drive inclusive growth, establish agribusinesses, and transform rural communities. Ogundipe called for collaboration from government agencies, private-sector investors, and development partners to scale the initiative.
UNESCO REF President Ladigbolu-Oranmiyan described the project as a model for climate-smart agriculture and women’s empowerment, aligned with the UN 2030 Agenda and AU Agenda 2063.
He said it will strengthen food systems, stimulate economic growth, and position Nigeria as a continental leader in sustainable agriculture.
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