The Nigerian government has launched a new initiative aimed at boosting food production and promoting self-sufficiency across the nation.
The National Urban Agricultural Programme (NUAP), announced by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, is set to take off in 2025 with funding already included in the country’s 2025 Appropriation proposals.
The announcement was made by the Hon. Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, at the grand finale of the “Every Home A Garden” competition on December 4, 2024. The event, organized by the Office of the First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, took place at the Banquet Hall of the State House in Abuja.
Sen. Abdullahi explained that the NUAP would build on existing agricultural initiatives like the “Every Home A Garden” and “Young Farmers Club” projects. These initiatives, which were launched under the First Lady’s Agricultural Support Programme, will now be incorporated into the new national strategy to strengthen urban agriculture and ensure long-term food security for Nigerians.
He praised Sen. Tinubu for her leadership and commitment to improving food security through grassroots efforts. “The ‘Every Home A Garden’ competition has not only encouraged home gardening but also reduced household food insecurity and promoted healthier lifestyles,” Sen. Abdullahi said.
The Minister congratulated Mrs. Veronica Kidafa Mbaya from Borno State, winner of the competition’s inaugural edition. Mrs. Mbaya was awarded a grand prize of N25 million for her exceptional gardening project.
The National Urban Agricultural Programme is expected to provide significant support to urban farmers, increase food production, and reduce Nigeria’s dependency on food imports, contributing to a more self-sufficient and resilient agricultural sector.
