Nigeria’s N60tr Annual Loss Due to Youth Exclusion in Agriculture

Nigeria Faces N60 Trillion Annual Loss Due to Youth Exclusion from Agriculture

Nigeria is reportedly losing an astonishing N60 trillion each year due to the failure to integrate its youth into the agricultural sector. This alarming statistic underscores the critical need for policy reforms and innovative strategies to engage young people in farming and agribusiness.

The agricultural landscape in Nigeria is rich with potential, offering vast opportunities for employment, food security, and economic growth. However, the persistent disengagement of the youth from this vital sector hampers the nation’s overall development. Young people represent a significant portion of the population, and their involvement in agriculture could serve as a catalyst for revitalizing the industry.

Several factors contribute to the youth’s reluctance to participate in agriculture, including the perception of farming as an outdated profession, lack of access to resources, and insufficient support from the government. Furthermore, inadequate training and mentorship programs prevent young individuals from acquiring the skills necessary to thrive in modern agricultural practices.

To address these challenges, stakeholders must prioritize initiatives that promote agricultural education and entrepreneurship among the youth. Investment in technology, such as mobile applications for market access and precision farming tools, can also attract younger generations to the field. Moreover, creating incentives for youth-led agricultural ventures can foster innovation and sustainability within the sector.

In light of these challenges and opportunities, it is imperative for Nigeria to rethink its agricultural policies and actively involve youth in the decision-making processes. By doing so, the country can unlock the untapped potential of its young population, reduce the economic losses currently being incurred, and pave the way for a prosperous future in agriculture.