FG, States Adopt NYATIP as Joint Youth Agriculture Initiative, Partner YoFiN for Inclusive Policy Design

In a major step toward strengthening youth participation in agriculture, the Federal Government, in collaboration with state governments, has formally adopted the Nigerian Youth in Agritech & Innovation Programme (NYATIP) as a unified national initiative to drive youth-focused agricultural development.

The new framework aims to bridge policy gaps, stimulate innovation, and expand agritech opportunities for young Nigerians across all regions. A central feature of the initiative is its emphasis on inclusive policy design, achieved through direct engagement with youth-led organizations such as the Youth Farmers Network (YoFiN) and other key stakeholders within the agricultural ecosystem.

Speaking at the joint adoption briefing, during the 47th National Council on Agriculture (NCA) government officials stated that NYATIP will serve as a strategic vehicle for empowering young farmers, promoting digital agriculture, and positioning Nigeria as a regional leader in agritech-driven food production.

They noted that collaboration with youth groups like YoFiN is essential to ensuring that policies reflect the real challenges and aspirations of young farmers and innovators.

“This initiative marks a new era of co-creation with young people,” an official said. “By working hand-in-hand with youth organizations, we are building an agricultural future that is innovative, inclusive, and economically sustainable.”

Under NYATIP, participating states will align with federal support structures to deliver:

• Agritech training and capacity building

• Access to funding, inputs, and mechanization

• Digitized extension services

• Support for climate-smart farming

• Market integration for youth-led agricultural enterprises

YoFiN and other youth bodies have welcomed the move, describing it as a historic opportunity for meaningful youth inclusion in agriculture and national development.

Observers say the programme could become one of Nigeria’s most impactful youth empowerment initiatives if implemented effectively.