Aliyu Abdullahi, the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, underscored the critical role of a robust agricultural extension service system in promoting sustainable and resilient agricultural practices. During a technical meeting in Abuja to review feedback on the proposed Nigeria Agricultural Extension Services Bill, Abdullahi emphasized that effective extension support for farmers is vital for boosting productivity and increasing their incomes.

With 70% of Nigerians engaged in agriculture, the minister highlighted the urgent need for adequate technical assistance to optimize agricultural production. “Our President, President Bola Tinubu, envisions a nation where no one goes to bed hungry. Extension agents will help farmers achieve sufficiency for this vision,” Abdullahi stated.

He noted that extension agents are essential for sharing Good Agronomic Practices based on research findings and innovative techniques that can significantly enhance crop yields. “The proposed bill is a game-changer in the sector, demonstrating our commitment to improving agriculture,” he added.

Salamatu Garba, the Country Director of the Women Farmers Advancement Network (WOFAN) ICON2 Project, which the Mastercard Foundation funds, echoed Abdullahi’s views. She commented that an effective extension system not only boosts agricultural yields but also draws more people, particularly youth, into the sector. “Efficient extension improves farmers’ income and attracts more youths into agriculture, thus addressing unemployment and strengthening food sufficiency,” Dr. Garba noted.

The WOFAN-ICON2 Project aims to create sustainable opportunities for 675,000 young Nigerians aged 18-35 over the next five years, as part of the Mastercard Foundation’s Young Africa Works strategy, ultimately seeking to enhance production and food security across the nation.