FG Launches ‘Green Money Project’ to Empower Youths in Agriculture

The Federal Government has launched the Green Money Project, a presidential initiative designed to empower young Nigerians through modern agricultural practices.

The Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Agriculture, Abiodun Yinusa, described the Project as a strategic initiative while speaking at its inauguration held on Wednesday at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB).

Yinusa explained that the initiative aims to harness Nigeria’s agricultural potential by empowering youth and tapping into the country’s rich resources and other untapped opportunities within the sector.

He said the initiative aligns with Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency on food security.

“It complements the ongoing efforts of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and encourages collaboration among key stakeholders to involve youth more actively in agriculture,” he added.

Addressing core national challenges

Yinusa highlighted the nation’s pressing challenges, including unemployment, poverty, food insecurity, and the long-standing underutilization of the agricultural sector by young Nigerians.

He reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s commitment to empowering and motivating youth to play a leading role in transforming agriculture.

“In line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the national emergency on food security, this initiative seeks to empower young Nigerians through agricultural development.

“The programme will attract, train, and support youth by equipping them with knowledge in modern agricultural practices, mechanization, climate-smart farming techniques, and digital technologies.

“It will be implemented across selected universities, youth development centres, and technical colleges nationwide, contributing to the goal of achieving zero hunger in Nigeria,” he said.

Project focus and institutional support

The Project Coordinator, Mr. Charles Folayan, said the project focuses on data development, capacity building, resource support, mentorship, and market access.

In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Prof. Olushola Kehinde, expressed appreciation to the Presidency for selecting the institution as one of the project’s partners.

He described the initiative as a timely and impactful intervention and expressed optimism that the partnership would significantly boost the university’s capacity in food production and value chain development.

About Green Money Project

The Green Money Project is a presidential initiative aimed at empowering Nigerian youth through agriculture. This program is designed to attract, train, and support young individuals in developing their agribusiness potential, fostering value creation and wealth generation across Nigeria.

Eligibility Criteria

Age: 18-40 years old
Nationality: Nigerian citizen or permanent resident
Education: Minimum of secondary school education
Location: Resident in any of the 36 states of Nigeria or the Federal Capital Territory
Agricultural Interest: Demonstrated interest or experience in agriculture or agribusiness
Commitment: Willingness to participate in training programs and workshops
Business Orientation: Interest in developing or expanding an agricultural business
Tech Literacy: Basic computer and smartphone skills
Physical Ability: Capable of engaging in agricultural activities
No Prior Beneficiary: Should not have previously benefited from similar government agricultural programs
Valid Identification: Possession of a valid government-issued ID (e.g., National ID, Voter’s Card).

Benefits of the Green Money Project:

Acquire In-Demand Skills: Learn about modern farming practices, business management, and financial literacy.
Access Funding and Resources: Connect with grants, loans, and mentorship opportunities.
Build a Successful Agribusiness: Become a job creator and help contribute to a more food-secure nation.
Be Part of the Solution: Join a network of passionate young individuals who are transforming agriculture.

Key Objectives of the Green Money Project:

Reposition agriculture as a viable and lucrative venture in the minds of Nigerian youths.
Enhance food security significantly and sustainably by leveraging the potential of unemployed youth as agents of agricultural transformation.
Boost productivity, innovation, and market access within Nigeria’s agricultural sector.