The National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) and German Development Cooperation (GIZ) have reaffirmed their resolve to transform Nigeria's agriculture through gender-inclusive and climate-smart financing models.
Speaking at a validation workshop in Abuja, both organisations highlighted plans to finalise a framework that will give millions of women and youths better access to tailored agricultural financing and support.
Agriculture Minister, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, emphasized integrating digital tools and innovative financing models to empower underserved groups, especially in the face of climate challenges like floods.
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NADF Executive Secretary, Mohammed Ibrahim, urged stakeholders to co-create solutions such as bundled services—financing, insurance, and mechanisation—on a "pay-as-you-plant" model.
Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, noted that although women form 70–75% of the agricultural workforce, they receive minimal access to credit and land. She called for dismantling systemic barriers against women in agriculture.
GIZ's Dr Andrea Ruediger encouraged the adoption of non-collateralised loans and climate-smart practices. Meanwhile, officials stressed technology, displaced persons, and institutional coordination as critical for inclusive agricultural growth.
The framework marks a shift from conventional credit systems to a holistic, farmer-centered support structure.
