By Abiodun Abdullai
The National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) has entered into a strategic partnership with Arzikin Noma Nigeria Limited to manage and implement the Renewed Hope Mega Farm Estate Project in Kwara State, as part of efforts to expand food production and empower agripreneurs nationwide.
Speaking at the signing ceremony in Abuja, NALDA's Executive Secretary, Engr. Cornelius Adebayo, said the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at making agriculture attractive, profitable, and sustainable for Nigerian youths.
According to him, the project — which has commenced in Ora (Kwara State), Ilawe (Ekiti State), and Bauchi State — will see Arzikin Noma managing the Ora site and financing participating farmers, while NALDA provides land preparation and basic infrastructure.
"This is the era of sexy agriculture, and NALDA is at the forefront of this mandate," Adebayo said.
He explained that each mega farm settlement spans at least 5,000 hectares and includes hostels, warehouses, administrative offices, and recreational facilities to make modern farming appealing to young Nigerians.
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Under the model, each farmer will cultivate an average of five hectares, supported by a mechanisation hub that provides tractors and equipment. Farmers will not make any upfront payments; service costs will be deducted after harvest through a transparent digital wallet system.
Adebayo expressed confidence that the project would create jobs, revitalize rural economies, and strengthen Nigeria's middle class, while ensuring food security through innovation and transparency.
"We are a government agency that honours its agreements. This partnership is proof that NALDA delivers on its promises," he added, calling on private sector players in oil, gas, and telecoms to invest in agriculture.
The Group Managing Director of Arzikin Noma, Mr. Michael Adeshola, described the collaboration as "a major step toward transforming Nigeria's food system," noting that with NALDA's plan to open 10 million hectares of farmland within 10 years, the country is on course to achieving food sovereignty.
The event, which coincided with World Food Day 2025, reinforced Nigeria's ongoing commitment to sustainable agriculture, climate-smart farming, and youth-driven innovation in agribusiness.
