The Federal Government’s allocation of N132 billion to support farmers under the 2025 budget is a commendable step in addressing the long-standing challenges facing Nigeria’s agricultural sector. Through the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), this initiative has the potential to revolutionize farming practices, empower smallholder farmers, and strengthen food security nationwide.
However, as history has shown, it is one thing to allocate funds and another to ensure that these resources genuinely reach their intended beneficiaries. Smallholder farmers, who form the backbone of Nigeria’s agricultural workforce, have often been sidelined by inefficient disbursement mechanisms, corruption, and bureaucratic bottlenecks.
We at the League for Social Justice commend the government’s effort but remain committed to shining a light on every step of this process. We will hold the government accountable and keep its feet to the fire to ensure that this noble initiative does not become another missed opportunity.
Key Areas of Concern:
Transparency and Accountability: The disbursement of funds must be fully transparent, with clear reporting mechanisms in place. We demand periodic updates from the Ministry of Agriculture on the status of fund distribution and utilization.
Timely Implementation: Delays in fund allocation have historically crippled agricultural projects. It is crucial that these funds reach farmers ahead of the planting seasons to maximize their impact.
Direct Beneficiary Targeting: Smallholder farmers must be directly registered and empowered, avoiding intermediaries that often lead to fund diversion. Digital platforms and local cooperatives can play a significant role in ensuring this.
Preventing Diversion of Funds: Strict monitoring and independent audits must be conducted to prevent funds from being diverted to “unintended beneficiaries.” Strong penalties should be enforced for those found guilty of mismanagement or corruption.
Our Commitment:
The League for Social Justice will not only monitor this process but actively advocate for mechanisms that guarantee equitable access to these funds. This includes engaging stakeholders, highlighting discrepancies, and mobilizing public pressure to ensure the success of this initiative.
Agriculture remains a critical pillar of Nigeria’s economy, and the success of this funding could pave the way for sustainable development across the sector. However, if the funds fail to reach the farmers on the ground, the government risks perpetuating the same cycle of inefficiency and lost potential.
A Call to Other Advocates:
We urge civil society organizations, media outlets, and agricultural stakeholders to join us in this effort. Together, we must demand that these funds be used to truly benefit those who need them most—Nigeria’s hardworking farmers.
Let us ensure that this N132 billion allocation becomes a beacon of hope and progress, not just another line item lost to inefficiency. The time for action is now.
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