In a major move to tackle youth unemployment and bolster food security, the Federal Government has officially launched the Youth in Agribusiness Land Trust Fund (YALTF). The initiative aims to transform underutilized land assets into a powerhouse for national development. 
Unlocking Federal Land Resources
The programme, spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, is designed to activate land resources located across 42 National Youth Development Centres nationwide. By turning these dormant spaces into active hubs for cultivation and processing, the government seeks to remove one of the biggest barriers for young farmers: access to secure land.
Strategic Partnership for Modern Farming
To ensure the programme meets international standards, the government has partnered with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA). This collaboration focuses on equipping over 6 million young Nigerians with specialized training in modern agribusiness management, climate-smart farming techniques to ensure sustainability, and value-chain opportunities, moving beyond basic farming into processing and distribution.
The Vision for Economic Empowerment
During the launch, the Honorable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, emphasized that the initiative is about more than just farming; it is about creating a new generation of business leaders.
“The YALTF programme is a strategic investment in our greatest asset—our youth. By providing access to land, technical skills, and continuous support, we are not just teaching them to farm; we are empowering them to become successful agripreneurs who will drive Nigeria’s economic diversification.” He stated.
National Impact and Food Security
By integrating youth into the agricultural sector at this scale, the Federal Government aims to significantly reduce the national unemployment rate while ensuring a stable food supply chain. The initiative represents a shift toward technology-driven agriculture, making the sector more attractive to a tech-savvy younger generation.
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