Strategic Market System to Transform Nigeria’s Agricultural Value Chain – FG
The Federal Government has announced that a strategic market system will revolutionize Nigeria’s agricultural sector by transforming subsistence farming into profitable, competitive, and sustainable value chains. Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, highlighted that linking smallholder farmers to higher-value markets will directly increase their incomes and strengthen economic resilience.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by Heifer International, led by CEO Surita Sandosham, Kyari emphasized that effective market strategies attract private sector investment in agricultural services, reducing dependency on aid while building self-sustaining markets. He noted that digital platforms and improved market information empower farmers to negotiate better prices, curbing exploitation by intermediaries.
The Minister identified market access, value addition, and stronger linkages as key drivers of agricultural competitiveness. Kyari pointed to successful agribusinesses such as Extension Africa, Pullus Africa, Nimsy Agro, Vet Konnect, and Thrive Agric as examples of how targeted support can scale innovation, improve farmer services, and reinforce the value chain. He praised Heifer International for its long-standing contributions to Nigeria’s agricultural development and private sector growth.
Highlighting a collaborative initiative with the Bank of Agriculture, Kyari explained that Heifer International is supporting Nigeria’s mechanization drive through digital platforms that monitor tractor usage, maintenance schedules, and overall accountability. “This model combines technology with institutional strengthening, ensuring long-term impact,” he said.
Surita Sandosham, President of Heifer International, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to Nigeria, aiming to support two million households in achieving sustainable living incomes by 2030. She highlighted the harmonization of the National Digital Farmers’ Registry with geo-referenced data mapping, ensuring that interventions, from subsidized inputs to extension services, reach genuine smallholder farmers efficiently and transparently.
source: The sun