The World Bank’s new AgriConnect programme is set to create fresh opportunities for young Nigerians by transforming agriculture into a driver of innovation and employment.
The initiative, launched during the IMF/World Bank Annual Meetings in Washington, aims to support developing countries — including Nigeria — in tackling unemployment and food insecurity through agribusiness investment.
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According to the World Bank, 1.2 billion young people will enter the workforce in developing nations over the next decade, while global food demand will rise by 30 percent by 2050. AgriConnect seeks to channel $9 billion annually into building the systems needed to meet both challenges.
In Nigeria, youth unemployment remains high despite agriculture being the largest employer of labour. However, interest in agritech, processing, and logistics is growing among young people.
“With the right incentives and technology, agriculture can become the next oil for Nigeria’s youth,” said Chinedu Eze, founder of GreenFuture AgroHub in Abuja.
He said AgriConnect’s focus on digital technology, irrigation, and access to finance could empower young Nigerians to establish agro-startups and mechanised farms.
The World Bank said it would work with African governments to build infrastructure, enhance skills, and strengthen policies that attract private investment into agribusiness.
“AgriConnect could change how young people see farming — from a survival job to a wealth-creating venture,” Eze added.
Experts say the programme complements Nigeria’s National Agricultural Technology and Innovation Policy (NATIP), which seeks to promote youth participation, mechanisation, and agribusiness development nationwide.
