By Abdullahi Lukman
In a bid to enhance Nigeria’s food security and drive agricultural transformation, the National Assembly Joint Committee on Agricultural Production and Services has pledged its full support for the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF).
This reaffirmation, announced during a critical budget defense session held, Thursday, January 16, highlights the lawmakers’ commitment to the Fund as a central pillar of the nation’s broader agricultural and food security strategies.
Mohammed Ibrahim, Executive Secretary/CEO of the NADF, made the announcement in a statement shared with our correspondent on Saturday.
He outlined how, during the 2025 budget defense, legislators voiced their strong support for the Fund’s efforts to boost the nation’s agricultural sector and emphasized the urgent need for more robust funding to ensure the timely release of seed capital, a vital component for driving agricultural growth and development across the country.
“The legislators commended the NADF for its significant strides in 2024, particularly in advancing sustainable agricultural practices and facilitating the much-needed development in rural areas,” Ibrahim said, adding that the lawmakers also underscored the importance of maintaining momentum in the Fund’s efforts.
“They highlighted the necessity of enhancing support for the Fund, especially to ensure the swift disbursement of seed capital, which is crucial for fostering agricultural development.”
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The NADF’s budget defense was led by Senator Saliu Mustapha, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agricultural Production and Services, and Hon. Bello Kaoje, Chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture.
Both legislators expressed strong support for the strategic priorities outlined by the NADF for the upcoming fiscal year, which include scaling up agricultural financing, improving seed production systems, and boosting rural infrastructure to enhance the overall productivity and sustainability of Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
Ibrahim, in his defense of the NADF’s 2025 budget estimates, emphasized the Fund’s commitment to driving agricultural transformation through targeted initiatives that support economic growth and food security.
He specifically pointed to the Fund’s planned focus on enhancing the seed production system, improving access to financing for farmers, and upgrading rural infrastructure to ensure that the agricultural sector can thrive sustainably and remain resilient in the face of growing challenges such as climate change and population growth.
“These strategic priorities will ensure that our agriculture remains robust, and that farmers across the country have the resources they need to succeed,” Ibrahim said.
“Through increased support for seed production and rural infrastructure, we will lay the foundation for a more resilient agricultural sector that can support Nigeria’s food security ambitions and contribute to long-term economic growth,” he said further.
The legislators, in turn, expressed optimism that with continued and increased support, the NADF will play a crucial role in realizing the food security agenda of President Tinubu’s administration.
