By Abdullahi Lukman
The National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), in collaboration with the German Development Cooperation (GIZ), has unveiled a pioneering agricultural financing framework designed to be gender-inclusive and climate-smart, aiming to transform Nigeria’s farming sector.
The new framework was formally introduced at a validation workshop held in Abuja, where stakeholders from across the agricultural sector gathered to finalise a model that prioritises equity, resilience, and innovation in agricultural finance.
The initiative marks a significant shift away from traditional credit schemes toward a more holistic approach that integrates mechanisation, digital tools, extension services, advisory support, and risk-sharing mechanisms.
According to Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, the framework represents a “firm national commitment” to developing resilient food systems that are inclusive of women and youth farmers.
“This is more than just documentation,” Kyari said. “It reflects our determination to equip farmers with the tools and support necessary to adapt to climate change while ensuring equitable access to resources.”
The framework specifically targets millions of women and young farmers by providing tailored financial products and services designed to overcome barriers that have historically excluded them from agricultural financing.
By leveraging digital platforms and innovative models such as mobile wallet-based microloans and “pay-as-you-plant” schemes, the framework aims to widen access to credit, insurance, and mechanisation services.
Mohammed Ibrahim, Executive Secretary of NADF, described the framework as “an ambitious but necessary shift” in agricultural financing.
“Our mission is simple: to unlock and deploy financing that works for every Nigerian farmer, regardless of location or circumstance,” he said.
Ibrahim emphasised the importance of bundling financial products with other support services to create a more enabling environment for farmers.
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Women’s participation in agriculture was a key focus of the workshop, with Minister of Women Affairs Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim highlighting the urgent need to dismantle systemic barriers limiting women’s access to land and credit.
“Women constitute between 70 to 75 percent of Nigeria’s agricultural workforce and produce nearly 80 percent of our food,” she noted.
“Yet they receive only a small fraction of credit and land allocations. We must collectively work to level the playing field and recognise their critical contributions.”
Dr Andrea Ruediger, representing GIZ, reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to Nigeria’s agricultural transformation.
She urged swift adoption of the framework’s recommendations, including the expansion of non-collateralised loans, promotion of climate-smart agricultural practices, and better coordination among institutions.
In his remarks, Senator Saliu Mustapha, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture Production and Rural Development, stressed the critical role of technology in achieving food sustainability.
“We must drive this initiative forward, especially as we prepare to feed a rapidly growing population,” he said.
Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, called for greater inclusion of displaced persons in national agricultural policies.
“Over five million Nigerians are currently displaced, and we must ensure their voices and needs are part of our agricultural future,” he stated.
The launch of this gender-inclusive, climate-smart agricultural financing framework signals a transformative step in Nigeria’s efforts to build a resilient, equitable agricultural sector capable of addressing climate challenges and empowering vulnerable groups.
Stakeholders hope the framework will accelerate financial inclusion and support sustainable farming practices, ultimately boosting food security and rural livelihoods across the country.
