FG Launches Revised Youth Agriculture Manifesto, Calls Young Nigerians to Lead Sector Transformation

The Federal Government, in partnership with the Leonard and Nkiruka Okorkwo Foundation (LANOF), Heinrich Böll Foundation (HBF), and other stakeholders, has unveiled the revised 2025–2030 National Youth Manifesto in Agriculture. The launch took place on Tuesday in Abuja alongside the 2025 Nigerian Youth in Agribusiness Call to Action — a strategic framework aimed at placing young Nigerians at the forefront of agricultural reform.

Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, described the manifesto as a youth-driven blueprint for reshaping Nigeria’s agricultural future. Represented by Mrs. Safina Abdullah, Deputy Director of Planning and Policy Coordination, Kyari emphasized that the document was not merely symbolic but a “call to duty.” He assured stakeholders that the ministry is committed to translating the document into practical policies, investments, and opportunities.

The manifesto is structured around eight core priorities: agroecology and climate resilience, land and input access, youth-friendly financing and markets, agritech and research, skill development, gender and social inclusion, policy advocacy, and mentorship. Kyari noted that the plan aligns with national frameworks like the National Agriculture Technology and Innovation Policy (NATIP) 2022–2027 and the revised National Gender Policy in Agriculture for 2025–2030. He also announced plans to develop a dedicated National Youth in Agribusiness Strategy, in alignment with the African Union’s broader goals.

Speaking at the event, LANOF Co-Founder Nkiruka Okorkwo called the manifesto a powerful tool for policy advocacy and youth empowerment, emphasizing its co-creation by and for young people. HBF’s Country Director, Sophie von Knebel, and ActionAid’s Blessing Akhile both hailed the collaborative process and reaffirmed their commitment to inclusive agricultural development. In his closing remarks, Kyari urged Nigerian youth to take full ownership of the initiative, encouraging them to build innovative enterprises and drive transformation in the sector.